SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. — Washington State Senator Leonard Christian is facing backlash after using a disability slur during a Senate floor debate last week.
Christian from Spokane Valley used the R-word when referring to people with disabilities during discussion of House Bill 1390. The bill would eliminate the Community Protection Program, which serves people with disabilities who have a history of sexually violent behavior.
“So the terms that I put this in is this, the folks that we’re responsible for. We’re putting rapists in with r—- people. That’s what this bill is doing,” Christian said during the debate.
Audible gasps filled the Senate chamber following Christian’s comment.
The statement sparked outrage among colleagues, community members and those who work closely with the disabled community, including The Arc of Spokane, a nonprofit that advocates for those with disabilities.
“It is appalling and horrific that somebody on the Senate floor would use the R-word, which is outdated, harmful and dangerous,” said Pamela Norr, CEO of The Arc of Spokane.
Taylor Crisp, a Spokane County Parent Coalition Self Advocate from The Arc of Spokane said the language has broader implications for the community.
“We need to watch what we say because the community watches as our children watch. And here’s the thing. When we use that word, it shapes those attitudes which those attitudes can shift to how we treat and include people with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” Crisp said.
Christian defended his statement, saying it was necessary to call attention to the bill being debated. The senator voted no on House Bill 1390, saying if passed it could put those with disabilities at risk.
“I’m willing to take a hit on my reputation if I can save somebody being from being physically hurt,” Christian said. “I am not a politician. I am a public servant. I am not here to be politically correct. I want to do the correct thing.”
Several senators condemned Christian’s use of the word immediately following his remarks. House representatives from Spokane and Spokane Valley have also spoken out against the senator’s language.
Christian said he is certain there will be repercussions from the incident.
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