3. Engage Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ADEI) in Practice

Diversity is an integral part of society, offering unique perspectives that enrich our understanding of humanity. While cultural differences bring valuable insights, they also serve as learning opportunities to navigate personal and collective challenges. As a social worker, I recognize the importance of considering an individual’s historical experiences and the impact of their cultural background.

I am committed to continuous learning, actively seeking knowledge about diverse cultures through research, evidence-based practices, and professional development. Attending ongoing diversity training will remain a priority to enhance my ability to build meaningful, culturally responsive relationships with clients. Most importantly, I will engage in regular self-assessment to identify and address any personal biases, ensuring that I provide equitable and inclusive support in all helping relationships.

3.1 Analyze practice settings through an Anti-racism, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion lens.

Course Evidence: As part of a group project in my Advanced Administration Practice: Program Development course, I collaborated with colleagues to develop a needs assessment and program proposal. Our initiative, the Community Connect Project with the Chattanooga Police Department, aimed to implement culturally informed policing strategies and annual diversity training to address racial disparities in police interactions within the Chattanooga community.

The program was designed to foster stronger partnerships between law enforcement and the diverse communities they serve while promoting transparency and accountability within the department. Our research involved a comprehensive analysis of community needs, historical discriminatory policing practices, and evidence-based interventions to identify effective strategies for strengthening police-community relations. The project underscored the importance of proactive engagement, trust-building, and systemic change to reduce injustices and enhance public safety for all citizens. View page 17 for the needs assessment and page 21 for the program proposal.

3.2 Demonstrate leadership in implementing Anti-racism, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion -informed strategies with diverse populations.

Course Evidence: During my Advance Policy course, my group project focused on repealing the STANDUP act. One component of this project was to create a social advocacy strategy. The advocacy coalition framework model influenced this advocacy plan. The group wanted to educate and spread awareness of the Anti-racism, Diversity, Equity and inclusion, this  act created and the restriction of some Tennesseans’ basic human rights. We created this action plan to include a potential coalition plan of other supporters motivated to fight for social justice. Click here to view the potential coalition plan beginning on page 17. 

Social Work Knowledge used:  I was able to use my knowledge of Advance Human Rights and Social, Economic, and Environmental Justice by understanding that every person regardless of position in society has basic human rights such as freedom, safety, privacy, an adequate standard of living, and education.

Social Work Values used:By being culturally competent I  understood, appreciated and interacted with people from cultures or belief systems different from my own.

Social Work Skills used: Advocating for individuals, families and children to receive needed services regardless of economic status, race, gender, sex etc. This includes building a rapport and understanding each persons individual needs

Cognitive Processes: Through my volunteer activities, I empowered girls by implementing a client-centered approach that prioritized their individual needs, strengths, and aspirations.

Affective Processes: During my field placement experience, I developed a deeper understanding of the influence of societal structures and systems on the distribution of privilege and oppression across various social groups.

Theoretical Foundation: Drawing upon the critical social theory framework, which examines and critiques societal power dynamics, I facilitated reflection among clients and students on their daily practices and interpersonal relationships.