Assignment:
Engaging in advocacy and change efforts with organizations and communities is an ethical responsibility. According to the National Association of Social Workers' Code of Ethics, social workers have a responsibility to pursue social change. In macro social work, social workers pursue social change by organizing communities or organizations that have historically experienced exclusion and inequities or by engaging issues affecting vulnerable, disadvantaged, or oppressed populations. Social workers engage in advocacy around issues that challenge unjust practices or power structures in organizations, communities, or society. However, challenging the status quo comes with risks. As a macro social worker, you will learn to identify and manage those risks, recognizing that challenging injustice is an inherently risky enterprise. In this module, you will consider the dynamics and context of social work in communities and neighborhoods. Need Assignment Help?
Upon successful completion of this discussion, you will be able to:
- Demonstrate ethical decision-making by applying the NASW Code of Ethics and relevant laws and regulations to generalist macro social work practice. (PO 1)
- Explore injustice and oppression within the social environment at local and global levels. (PO 3)
- Demonstrate cultural humility by applying critical reflection, self-awareness, and self-regulation to manage the influence of bias, power, privilege, and values in working with clients and constituencies (PO 3)
Resources:
Textbook: Generalist Practice with Organizations and Communities
Background Information:
Macro social workers are professional advocates who organize communities and organizations to address issues of injustice and improve the well-being and outcomes of vulnerable, at-risk, or disadvantaged populations in the community. They also rely a great deal on citizen and group advocates as they work to promote social change and improve access to services and resources. In this activity, you will begin to explore aspects of the community from a systems perspective and the theories and roles social workers can play in influencing change and achieving positive outcomes.
Instructions:
Review the rubric to make sure you understand the criteria for earning your grade.
In your textbook, Generalist Practice with Organizations and Communities, read Chapter 8, "Understanding Neighborhoods and Communities."
Navigate to the threaded discussion and respond to the following prompts. Your initial post should be meaningful and thorough in response to each prompt using APA style and citations.
How could meeting your ethical obligation to promote social justice impact you personally?
Provide an example of how promoting social inclusion, equality, and justice would challenge the status quo of your community or organization.
How will you assess and manage those risks?