Dan Savage…….a real savage.

Some of you may be unfamiliar with Dan Savage’s writing.  He is pretty famous for his ”Savage Love ” advice column among other things  He is an author, journalist and author of many works.  Known for his liberal political point of view and gay rights activism, his writings have been thought provoking, humorous at times and certainly controversial.  In the past I have been intrigued by his work.  However his recent article title, ” ‘Tard Supper” has really disappointed me.

Basically he has published an article about a piece of art work depicting the Last Supper in which everyone at The Last Supper has Down Syndrome.  Personally I LOVE this portrayal because our loved ones with DS embody so many Christ like qualities.  I don’t know if this is what the artist intended to portray.  I don’t care.  This is what I get out of the work when I look at it.  I like it.  What I don’t like is the title of Savage’s article,  ” ‘ Tard Supper.”  You can view the article and all the comments at this link:  http://slog.thestranger.com/slog/archives/2009/11/09/the-tard-supper

To come up with such a title out of ignorance and carelessness would be a minor offense.  However, Savage has received so many negative comments and requests for a retraction of this title.  There is no way that he can no longer be ignorant of the fact that he has dealt a cruel blow not only to those who are mentally challenged and can not always defend themselves, but to their friends and families as well.  I can not fathom how a man who speaks out against slurs against the homosexual community can turn around and then use such a slur against those with DS.  How can a man that demands respect for some be so disrespectful to others?  True hypocrisy.  What about the homosexuals within the DS community he has offended?  (I guess he does not consider all of the homosexual parents of children with DS he has offended.  I guess he does not care or even want to think of the homosexuals that have DS.)  

I have left a comment about his hurtful title.  Some will argue that Dan Savage is only being an advocate of free speech and is delighting in all this hullabaloo it has generated.  Sure, free speech is important, but what about basic kindness, compassion and respect?  Shouldn’t free speech be used responsibly?  Some will argue that Dan is probably not even reading these comments and onto something else already.  I don’t care.  Some would say it’s best to just ignore him.  Still, I say we have to stand up for our loved ones.  I urge you to visit the link:  http://slog.thestranger.com/slog/archives/2009/11/09/the-tard-supper and share your thoughts as well.