Massachusetts OKs measure to rename DMR, remove stigma
July 9th, 2008
From the Amesbury [Massachusetts] News and the Newburyport [Massachusetts] Daily News:
The title of the Massachusetts Department of Mental Retardation will be changed through a provision of the state budget passed by the legislature. The new name will be the Department of Developmental Services.
State Rep. Michael A. Costello, D-Newburyport, left, a longtime proponent of the change, praised the move as an empowering action for one of the state’s most vulnerable populations. Costello has filed legislation to change the name of DMR during each of the last three legislative sessions.
… “The word retardation is used as a commonplace pejorative throughout society, and it’s really common sense that the word should not be associated with one of our state agencies,” Costello said. “The change removes a harmful stigma and should empower those whom the agency serves.”
Costello said he is hopeful that Gov. Deval Patrick would sign the measure.
(Photo from www.mass.gov)


