Media Resources

Resources

Quick facts about The Arc of Massachusetts, our core programs and accomplishments

Recent press releases from The Arc of Massachusetts

Contact information for staff at The Arc of Massachusetts and our 20 local chapters

Guidelines for writing about people with disabilities

The Arc advocates the use of people-first language when speaking or writing about people with disabilities. The Arc's move toward people-first language recognizes that the words "mentally retarded" and "the retarded" are no longer appropriate. The word "retarded" has come to define the person (often used as an epithet) and the term "the retarded" is disrespectful as it renders the persons and the disability equal. The appropriate and respectful alternative to these terms are phrases such as "person with a developmental disability" or "people with cognitive and developmental disabilities," which place people first, before their disabilities, in the descriptor.

For more information, read The Arc of Massachusetts's position statement on language or click here for detailed guidelines for reporting and writing about people with disabilities.

For more information, please do not hesitate to contact us online or by phone at (781) 891-6270.

Key Links

Regional Press Contacts

The Arc of Massachusetts YouTube Project

The Arc of Massachusetts has launched a video project to publicize the extreme needs (and in many cases, unmet needs) of people with disabilities and their families in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

The videos below are just a sampling of the thousands of stories statewide of people who have lost or are risk of losing essential services. Use the arrows to choose among stories, or visit The Arc of Massachusetts’ YouTube page here.

These needs within the Department of Developmental Services include:

§ 3,000 people awaiting family supports

§ 600 awaiting residential services

§ 700 students annually turning 22 students and in need of transition services

§ 360 individuals awaiting Day/Employment services

§ Thousands of under-paid workers

§ See our budget pages for more information about unmet needs