Dwarfism Awareness Month | Post 8

"Midget" is derived from the word midge...a small, blood-sucking insect. It was never coined as the official term to identify people with dwarfism. In fact, it was created years ago as a label used to refer to people of short stature who were on public display for curiosity and sport. This was during a time when freak shows and carnivals were popular. People born with dwarfism were put on display with the intention of humiliating them. Can you imagine?

Today, the m-word is considered a derogatory slur. The dwarfism community has voiced that they prefer to be referred to as dwarfs, little people, people of short stature or having dwarfism, or simply, and most preferably, by their given name (from the LPA monthly newsletter).

I had never really given much thought to the "m-word" before learning about Otto's diagnosis. If you would have asked me about it, I probably would have shrugged and maybe even said something about being politically correct. However, knowing what I do now, I would have been wrong.

The words we choose when referring to others have meaning. When people choose to use the m-word, they are also choosing to dehumanize and degrade people who were born with dwarfism. It's not about being politically correct; it's about being respectful. This is true not only for the m-word, but the n-word, r-word, etc.

In the past year, I've seen a new vineyard change its name and brand, removing its fairytale dwarf-theme (because when people with dwarfism are used as characters and made out to be mystical, it makes them less human and therefore dehumanized REAL people with dwarfism). I've seen a school district (in McLaughlin, SD!) drop its "Midget" mascot so to be more cognizant of other's feelings. I've even seen a raisin company willingly stop referring to small raisins with the m-word!

Unfortunately, I've also see a school district (shame on you, Freeburg, IL) turn their heads and say that they value the history and tradition of their mascot more than they value compassion toward those born with dwarfism.

Change is happening and I am hopeful that the world will be a kind and compassionate place for Otto and others.

So what should you do now that you know all of this? First, think about the words that you choose to use when talking about people different than yourself. Second, when you hear others use these terms, don't be afraid to speak up and correct them. Be kind in doing so. Let them know why it's important to you. Use Otto as an example!

As I said, this is an important topic...if you have ANY questions, please, please, please don't hesitate to ask. ‪

choose kindness.