Barbara Nowacka reacts to a Polish Bishops’ Conference letter warning against the introduction of health education in schools, calling the critics’ views harmful.
Barbara Nowacka comments on the letter from the Polish Bishops’ Conference
Barbara Nowacka addressed the content of the Polish Bishops’ Conference letter, which warned about the consequences of introducing a new school subject: health education. The letter noted that the subject “contains content related to so-called sexual health, whose goal is a complete change in the perception of family and love.” It also stated, “Sexuality topics within health education are separated from the context of marriage and family. Marriage is almost absent here, while family—as understood as father, mother, and children—is entirely marginalized.” The bishops claimed the new subject introduces a gender-based concept of sex and encourages children and youth to abandon their femininity or masculinity.
\”Such an opinion is simply harmful\”
“The bishops appear suddenly against the interests of children and youth. Where will young people learn how to be mentally resilient?”—minister of national education, cited by TVN24, said. Nowacka also questioned, “What motivates the bishops to take such strong actions against this subject?” She emphasized that youth face risks like pornography, pedophilia, and addiction, urging society to provide them with tools to stay safe and resilient. “I strongly appeal to the bishops for some empathy,” she added. Dr. Bartosz Fiałek, a physician cited by the station, called the bishops’ opinion “clearly harmful,” noting that practicing believers might be influenced by it. Dr. Maciej Jędrzejko, author of the blog “Tata Ginekolog,” stated, “This is simply a necessity. In all civilized countries, health education is conducted.”
Health education in schools since September 1
Health education will be an optional subject introduced in IV-grade primary schools and higher secondary schools starting September 1. Lessons will not be graded. Topics covered include physical health, physical activity, mental health, nutrition, addiction prevention, and sexual health. “Students will learn about the anatomy of reproductive organs and the concept of bodily autonomy. This is particularly important to protect children and youth (and later adults) from violence, including sexual abuse. (…) They will learn about crossing personal boundaries, how the law protects the youngest, and where to seek help. They will also gain information about online risks (such as luring minors, child pornography, and cyberbullying)”—states the Educational Development Center’s material. Older students will also receive education on contraception, preventing sexually transmitted infections, and diseases.
Source: Gazeta, https://wiadomosci.gazeta.pl/polska/7
