Race, Racism, and Justice

Social Work is a profession of social action. It is rooted in our education, our Code of Ethics and ingrained in who we are in our professional and private lives. We are called to fight for social justice, and we do so, daily. It is not enough for social workers to be “not racist.” Our call to action, and our call to others, must be to be ANTI-RACIST. We must aggressively fight against racism, and challenge others to rise to this standard. We must work to systematically dismantle white privilege and create a social system that works equally well for all residents of our nation.

At NASW-NJ, we are committed to advocating for policies and legislation that advance racial justice. We are committed to creating educational opportunities for social workers related to race and racism. We are committed to learning, growing, and leaning in, even when it is hard or uncomfortable.

NASW-NJ Statement on the Murder of George Floyd

Friends and Colleagues—

Like many of you, I have sat with news coming from Minnesota and George Floyd’s death for several days and while these situations are all too familiar, I struggle as if it is the first time we’ve seen it. 

As we watch our brothers and sisters murdered, the only thing I can respond with is enough. 

Enough killing. Enough violence. Enough racism and xenophobia, police brutality and enough with the school to prison pipeline. Enough with the thoughts and prayers. Enough with the advocacy that ends with a Facebook post or tweet. But also, are we doing enough? Are you? 

Read the full statement

Resources

Webinars and Programs on Race