Coalition of National Disability Organizations in Protest Against DreamWorks' 'Tropic Thunder'

Coalition of National Disability Organizations in Protest Against DreamWorks' 'Tropic Thunder'

Organizations protest at August 11th premiere of film;
Special Olympics launches 'R-Word' Campaign

WHAT:

Special Olympics Chairman and CEO Timothy Shriver, along with other disability organization leaders, people with intellectual disabilities, family members and supporters will protest the star-studded premiere of DreamWorks' "Tropic Thunder" to demonstrate against the film's use of the inflammatory word "retard" and the demeaning portrayal of people with intellectual disabilities throughout the movie.

See contact information below if you'd like to arrange an interview with Tim Shriver.

WHY:

The use of the R-Word perpetuates the dehumanizing and negative stereotypes of people with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics is launching a "R-Word" campaign to seek removal of the use of the word from mainstream language and popular culture and asks people to join Special Olympics in this effort. Special Olympics opposes all forms of prejudice and continues its mission to educate people about the value and capabilities of people with intellectual disabilities and promote their overall acceptance and inclusion in society.

WHEN:
Monday, August 11, 2008
5:30 p.m. (film screening begins at 7:30 p.m.)

WHERE:
Mann Village Theatre
961 Broxton Ave.
Westwood, CA 90024

CONTACT:

For questions or to speak with Tim Shriver, Chairman and CEO, Special Olympics, please contact:

Name: Peter Wheeler Monica Bouldin/Vanessa Gerard
Phone 202-215-2549 310-248-6114/310-724-5964
Email pwheeler@specialolympics.orgmonica.bouldin@ogilvypr.comvanessa.gerard@ogilvypr.com

PRNewswire -- Aug. 11
First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Special Olympics

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Profile: intent