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Unacceptable word.

1 reply

theheadgirl · 26/04/2008 19:37

To MN HQ:
Many of us have contacted you, to express the opinion that the word "mong" should not be acceptable.
In the thread in question, the poster, who I am sure meant nothing derogatory, used the phrase "to mong out in front of the TV"
It has been suggested that this meant nothing more than to "veg" out.
However, this word derives from the word "mongol", which many years ago was the acceptable medical term to describe Down Syndrome. Thankfully the medical profession no longer use the word.
As the mother of a beautful, lively girl with Down Syndrome, (who never, ever "mongs" anywhere!) I find this a vile word. It is one that reminds me of the way that those with learning difficulties are sometimes labelled, are treated as 2nd class, and are denied any individuality. Ignorance of its history should not mean it can be continued to be used. Look at the picture of my girl on my profile and ask yourself - would you be happy to hear the word used?
If you feel that this word is unacceptable please add your name to this thread.

AbbyMumsnet · 26/04/2008 20:15

I haven't been on duty since Wednesday but, as I understand it, this was originally left because one of the team felt that the subsequent debate (as to why such a comment is unacceptable) would go a long way to educating the Mumsnet community. I think she felt that deleting the OP would render the thread nonsensical and, consequently, any subsequent educational element would be lost. That said, I think I remember a general email from either Justine or Carrie saying the post should go - and I agree. So just to make it perfectly clear - no, we really, really don't think it's an acceptable term, and any decision to leave the post was done with a good motive - but, in hindsight, maybe we should have deleted it when it was first reported.

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