Competency 2: Advance Human Rights and Social, Economic, and Environmental Justice
Social workers understand that every person regardless of position in society has fundamental human rights. Social workers are knowledgeable about the global intersecting and ongoing injustices throughout history that result in oppression and racism, including social work’s role and response. Social workers critically evaluate the distribution of power and privilege in society in order to promote social, racial, economic, and environmental justice by reducing inequities and ensuring dignity and respect for all. Social workers advocate for and engage in strategies to eliminate oppressive structural barriers to ensure that social resources, rights, and responsibilities are distributed equitably and that civil, political, economic, social, and cultural human rights are protected.
Social workers:
a. advocate for human rights at the individual, family, group, organizational, and community system levels; and
b. engage in practices that advance human rights to promote social, racial, economic, and environmental justice.
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Advancing human rights and social, racial, economic, and environmental justice represents the need to challenge systemic inequalities, advocate for marginalized voices, and actively work towards a more just society. This requires understanding of social, racial, economic, and environmental justice, driving social workers to break-down oppressive structures. This is a necessary component to social work because human rights and justice are needed to support the communities and individuals we serve.
To remain committed to practicing this, I seek ongoing education by constantly updating myself on justice and human rights issues from around the world. I engage in open conversations about injustices with my peers and members of the community. I advocate for policy changes by promoting justice inside and outside my practice. My commitment involves challenging myself to confront discomfort, learn from mixed perspectives, and use my position for meaningful social change.
Evidences:
Literature Review- Purity Culture
Soci-322-A Human Behavior and Social Environment
In this review, I explore how Purity Culture affects women in Christian circles, drawing from personal experience. Purity Culture deeply impacts sexuality, well-being, and mental health, necessitating recovery efforts. As a future social worker, this topic is crucial for understanding and validating individuals’ struggles.
Understanding Purity Culture is vital for creating a safe space and fostering empowerment. It influences various aspects of women’s lives, including education, relationships, and professional settings. The review highlights the harmful impact of the “Billy Graham” rule and the dichotomy perpetuated by Purity Culture and pop culture.
This knowledge equips me to address issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Advocating for comprehensive sexual education and challenging harmful stereotypes can promote a more just and equitable society. Amplifying the voices of those affected by Purity Culture is essential for fostering empowerment and acceptance.
Email Screenshot- Advocacy for Students
Changes Regarding Giving Day, Southern Adventist University, Fall 2023
In this email, I express concerns to the Advancement Office about the promotion of Giving Day at SAU. I emphasize the potential financial pressure on students and suggest reconsidering the current approach to prioritize valuing students and the contributions given outside of financial. I propose exploring alternative funding methods that don’t solely rely on students’ contributions. As a BSW undergrad, student advisor, and teachers assistant, I stress the importance of acknowledging students’ existing contributions to the community and express a willingness to collaborate for a more inclusive solution.
This email aligns with this competency, as it involves advocating for inclusivity and addressing financial challenges faced by students. It required me to apply knowledge of social justice principles and engage in critical thinking to propose alternative funding methods that prioritize the well-being of students.
I chose this assignment as evidence because it showcases my ability to advocate for social justice within an institutional context. The email reflects my commitment to advancing human rights and social justice by challenging existing practices and proposing alternative solutions. It helped me develop mastery in this competency by applying social work principles of advancing human rights and social, racial, and economic justice to address systemic issues within the university community.
Photo Taken November, 2023
Protest for Palestine, Washington DC
In November 2023, I actively participated in a march in Washington D.C. advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza. The march aimed to raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis and promote peace in the region. Alongside fellow demonstrators, a friend held a sign reading “Social Workers Against Genocide,” emphasizing the social work profession’s commitment to human rights and social justice. This experience allowed me to engage in advocacy on a global scale, applying my values and skills to address pressing international issues and contribute to the broader dialogue on social justice. Marching is a physical stand against injustices, and as social workers we need to show our support physically and not just verbally. It is an active demonstration of support.
This experience broadened my knowledge about global social justice issues, specifically the impact of conflicts on vulnerable populations. It enhanced my understanding of the complexities surrounding international crises, honing my awareness of diverse perspectives and cultural nuances in conflict resolution.
I chose this assignment because it demonstrated my active involvement in advocating for human rights and social justice on a global scale. The image of me holding a sign that reads “Social Workers Against Genocide” showcases my commitment to advancing human rights and addressing systemic injustices. This experience helped me develop by allowing me to apply my knowledge and skills in a real-world context, advocating for positive change and contributing to the promotion of peace and social justice.
Competency Two
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