Blog #196~Netflix Comedy Special “Disgraceful”

Blog #196~ Netflix Comedy Special “Disgraceful”

The Netflix comedy special, “Disgraceful” by Tom Segura has recently sparked outrage in the Down syndrome community.  The comedian, known for pushing the boundaries, talked about how you can’t use the words, “that is retarded” anymore.  In this act, he takes it a step further by suggesting that it be replaced with the term, “extra 21st chromosome,” directly mocking people with Down syndrome.  The words used in this program are wrong, offensive and by definition hate speech.  I wouldn’t be doing my job as Nick’s mother if I didn’t advocate for my son, and other individuals having Down syndrome.

To view the full transcript of this piece along with how the Down syndrome community and leading support groups are responding click here:

https://themighty.com/2018/01/tom-segura-retarded-down-syndrome-netflix/?utm_source=search&utm_medium=site&utm_term=Tom%20Segura%20Netflix

Netflix is promoting this special, “Disgraceful” by claiming this comedian “gives voice to the sordid thoughts you never say out loud”.  So it appears that these “sordid thoughts” about people having Down syndrome are fair game.  We live in a country where there is freedom of speech, and certainly comedians push boundaries all the time.  But it is extremely hurtful and offensive to make a joke at the expense of people like my son, and other individuals who have Down syndrome.

Change.org has a petition that calls for Netflix to:

*Remove the anti-down syndrome rhetoric from the show.

*Take the anti-disability sketch out of the trailer for the show.

*Issue a public apology for perpetuating hate speech and stereotype to the Down syndrome community.

To sign the Change.org petition click here:

https://www.change.org/p/netflix-take-it-down-netflix

If you have a Netflix account you can also give “comedian” Tom Segura a thumbs down.

Using the R-word and mocking individuals who have Down syndrome is NOT funny, in fact it’s disgraceful.  That’s what is in my noggin this week.

~Teresa