Advance Human Rights and Social, Racial, Economic, and Environmental Justice

This competency is one that gives me so much passion as a social worker.  The teachings and foundations of social work are exactly aligned to advocating for those that have been marginalized and discouraged from using their voice.  I will engage this by informing and educating myself on injustices pertaining to racial, social, economic inequality.  I am doing this currently by advocating for institutional policies that make it much easier for current and prospective students at Southern Adventist University to access scholarships.  In my future social work practice, I see myself as a social worker speaking for those who have been silenced, advocating for inclusive practices at the policy level as well as the professional level, and making equity at the heart of my practice.  As it pertains to environmental justice, I will remain cognizant of what environmental factors are impacting the communities that I am engaged with.  

Evidences

2.1 Demonstrate leadership in developing and implementing evidence based practice with relevant strategies that advance human rights at the individual, family, group, organizational, community, research, and policy levels

Field Evidence: Male Mentoring LifeGroup Content

In my role as a facilitator for the Male Mentoring LifeGroup, I have actively engaged diversity and difference in practice by integrating social work knowledge, values, skills, theory, and affective and cognitive processes. This LifeGroup was intentionally designed to provide a safe and supportive space for underserved and at-risk male students at Southern, acknowledging the unique challenges they face in academic, social, and personal development. Recognizing the intersectionality of race, socioeconomic background, and masculinity in shaping their experiences, I structured discussions and activities that affirm their identities while fostering growth.

Using knowledge of culturally responsive practice, I developed weekly session plans that incorporate media, open discussions, and structured accountability to ensure the group is relevant and engaging. By integrating strengths-based and empowerment theories, I emphasized the importance of resilience, personal agency, and community support, creating an environment where members feel valued and understood.

In alignment with social work values, I upheld the dignity and worth of each participant by encouraging open dialogue, mutual respect, and the celebration of diverse perspectives. Through skills such as active listening, facilitation, and motivational interviewing, I guided discussions that helped participants explore their own identities, struggles, and aspirations. I also created opportunities for mentorship and peer accountability, reinforcing the importance of representation and role modeling in fostering self-efficacy.

Engaging in affective and cognitive reflection, I remained mindful of my own biases and assumptions, ensuring that my leadership style and communication were inclusive, culturally humble, and participant-centered. By consistently evaluating group dynamics and participant feedback, I adapted the LifeGroup’s structure to better meet the needs of its members, reinforcing the ethical responsibility to practice cultural humility.

Through this work, I demonstrated my ability to engage diversity and difference in practice by honoring lived experiences, facilitating meaningful discussions, and promoting self-determination in a way that aligns with social work’s commitment to equity and inclusion.