Words have the power to hurt, and some words can be downright offensive. Recently, Marjorie Harvey, the wife of the famous game show and talk show host Steve Harvey, used the word “retarded” on her social media page, causing a significant public outcry. In an attempt to support his wife, Steve Harvey jumped in to address the controversy and defend her seemingly insensitive choice of words.
The video, which was shared on Instagram, showed Marjorie and Steve having a lighthearted moment while cutting fruit in their kitchen. However, it was Marjorie’s comment that shocked and outraged viewers. She said, “I’m sitting here arguing with my husband, ’cause clearly he thinks I’m retarded [and] I don’t know how to cut a beet.”
Almost immediately, the clip received over 400,000 views, leading to a wave of criticism towards Marjorie. With 1.7 million followers on Instagram, Marjorie is a popular fashion and lifestyle blogger. Her fans were disappointed and upset to hear her use such an offensive term.
One user pointed out, “Using the ‘R’ word in a negative or derogatory way is demeaning to others, regardless of whether she is using it towards herself or others. Just something to simply think about when using that word as an insult… in other words, just don’t.”
Another Instagram user, who has a daughter with Down syndrome, expressed her hurt and offense, stating, “There are people like me, my family, my daughter who has Down syndrome, who are all hurt by the implication you made.”
Several others echoed these sentiments, urging Marjorie to reconsider her choice of words. They emphasized that using the “R” word in that manner suggests that individuals with cognitive disabilities are less intelligent or inferior. They appealed for empathy and urged everyone to be more mindful of the impact of their words.
As the public backlash intensified, Steve Harvey felt compelled to defend his wife. He dismissed the controversy, saying, “What are you tripping about ’cause my wife said the word retarded? It’s a word, isn’t it? And she isn’t talking about anyone else but herself… She isn’t saying it about anybody’s baby. I don’t usually comment, but damn, are you just looking for something to be pissed off about ’cause we aren’t.”
Some fans came out in support of Steve and Marjorie, criticizing what they saw as an overly sensitive response. They argued that people are always searching for something to complain about and that there needs to be a balance between political correctness and freedom of expression.
This incident has left the public divided. Some argue that the use of the “R” word, even when not directed at anyone specifically, is still hurtful and disrespectful. Others believe it’s an overreaction and that people should be free to speak informally within their own homes.
What do you think? Do you believe the public has a valid reason to be upset, or has this controversy been blown out of proportion? Let us know your thoughts.
