Izabela Bodnar, a Polish MP, issued an apology after using the term “autism” pejoratively in a social media exchange regarding political alliances.
Initial Controversy and Response
Izabela Bodnar responded to a user comment on X regarding a potential change in leadership within the ruling coalition. Her response included a phrase referencing “autism” that drew criticism from both allies and opposition figures.
Bodnar wrote, “Bartek, you and Katarzyna Pełczyńska-Nałęcz are going to the wall. I understand autism and the tactic of saving a tree that has been burning for years, but such a ‘coming out’? With PiS?? Jesus.” The original commenter stated that “autism is not an epithet” and requested an apology to those on the autism spectrum.
Apology and Post Removal
Following the backlash, Izabela Bodnar published an apology. She stated, “From the bottom of my heart, I apologize for my comment in which I used the word ‘autism.’ I have supported neurodiverse people for years, and it was not my intention to hurt anyone. I apologize.”
Initially, the controversial comment remained visible for an extended period despite calls for its removal and an apology. Eventually, the original post was replaced with another: “Bartuś, Katarzyna Pełczyńska-Nałęcz’s lieutenant, have you completely lost it? So PiS after all? You struggled for so many years just to finally announce that clearly?”
Supporting Material and Political Background
Bodnar included a screenshot with her apology, showcasing an exhibition titled “Every Talent Worth Its Weight in Gold – Inclusive in Employment.” The exhibition focused on the challenges faced by marginalized groups in the labor market, including neurodiverse individuals, and listed Izabela Bodnar as one of the organizers.
Izabela Bodnar became an MP in 2023, joining the Sejm on the list of Poland 2050. After Katarzyna Pełczyńska-Nałęcz was elected as chairperson (defeating Paulina Hennig-Kloska), Bodnar left the party and joined the Centrum club. She has since publicly criticized her former party, accusing it of moving closer to Law and Justice (PiS).
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