During a council session in Ełk, Poland, two council members used offensive terms like “vegetables” and “cripples” to refer to people with disabilities, sparking outrage.
Council Members’ Offensive Remarks Spark Outrage
Ewelina Truszkowska and Andrzej Wiszowaty, members of the Ełk Poviat Council, used dehumanizing language towards people with disabilities during a session, referring to them as “vegetables” and “cripples.” No one present objected to the remarks.
The incident has caused significant public outrage, and the Ełk Starost (county head) has distanced themselves from the controversial statements.
Radna Truszkowska’s Explanation
Council member Truszkowska stated that her comment was made during a specific discussion and was poorly chosen, but she did not intend to offend anyone. She aimed to highlight the real problem of accessibility for people with disabilities.
Truszkowska also claimed she is being targeted as an “inconvenient” person, potentially due to election results, and emphasized her long-standing support for people with disabilities and seniors.
Przewodniczący Wiszowaty’s Defense
Council Chairman Wiszowaty stated he meant no harm and his comments were motivated by concern for people with disabilities. He acknowledged that older terms like “cripple” and “invalid” are now inappropriate.
Wiszowaty suggested that the term “disabled” may eventually be replaced with “person with greater needs,” and that his intention was to show care, not discredit the group.
Silence and Lack of Reaction
The lack of immediate reaction from other council members during the session has drawn criticism, with some interpreting it as tacit approval or a lack of sensitivity towards exclusionary language. Some argue the recording may be taken out of context.
Starosta’s Condemnation and Potential Consequences
Ełk Starost Marek Chojnowski condemned the language used by the council members, stating such terms are unacceptable in both official and private settings.
Experts and organizations advocate for people with disabilities emphasize the real impact of language on their perception and treatment. There are calls for consequences for the council members involved.