😳😲 There’s NO WAY A PROFESSIONAL Wrote THIS… 🫢😳

🤨 I was in absolute shock yesterday while completing a comprehensive assessment for a client. As I was reviewing the document, I noticed the “R-word” being used as an adjective to describe individuals with developmental differences. 🫢

🤨 At first, I completely missed it, but when I peeped it on the second pass, my jaw dropped. I couldn’t believe that in 2025, this kind of language was still sitting in an official assessment template. I immediately informed the individual who contracted me that the term was unprofessional, outdated, and downright offensive. There’s no reason that type of language should still exist in any professional documentation, especially in a field built around empathy and respect.

💡 Moments like this remind me that advocacy isn’t just part of the job, it IS the job. Whether we’re clinicians, educators, or caregivers, we have a responsibility to call out harmful language and uphold dignity in the spaces we occupy.

📝 Here’s what’s helped me assert boundaries and professionalism when faced with similar issues:

~ Speak up early. Address concerns directly but respectfully before they become a pattern.

~ Stay grounded in your values. You’re not “difficult” for upholding ethics, you’re doing what’s right.

~ Document everything. If you raise concerns, make sure they’re noted in writing.

~ Choose professionalism over passivity. Silence can be mistaken for agreement.

~ Protect your peace. Don’t internalize others’ lack of awareness, just educate, set limits, and move forward.

✨ I’ll never forget this moment because it reminded me how important it is to keep pushing for progress, even in the smallest details. Language matters, DEEPLY!

💬 Have you ever had to call out something unprofessional or outdated at work? How did you handle it? Let me know down below! 👇🏾

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