Happy Social Work Month 2010

Mar 11, 2010

Every now and then, something very significant takes place during my work day. Yesterday was one of those days. I had the opportunity to meet and spend some time with Congressman John Lewis from Georgia. I imagine almost all of you recognize his name. He is often called “one of the most courageous persons in the Civil Rights Movement” and he has dedicated his life to protecting human rights and securing civil liberties. Just this past weekend, Congressman Lewis attended the 45th anniversary of Bloody Sunday in Selma, AL, the march that led to the Voting Rights Act of 1965. .

His office contains the numerous honors that have been bestowed upon him during the last half century. While it felt almost like a museum,. Mr. Lewis is living testament to a lifetime of work on behalf of others..

Mr. Lewis is dynamic, passionate and engaged. He understands and appreciates what social workers do and what our goals are. Two of his staff, including, his chief of staff, are social workers.

If you have not read Congressman Lewis’ book, Walking with the Wind:: A Memoir of the Movement, I hope you will take the time to do so. Congressman Lewis reminds us of what one person can do to change the world.

As another Social Work Month begins , we want to acknowledge social workers everywhere for the outstanding work that you do. Together, we are making a difference.

Happy Social Work Month.

Elizabeth J Clark, PhD, ACSW
Executive Director, NASW

Social Workers Help Pet Owners Navigate Homelessness

Social Workers Help Pet Owners Navigate Homelessness

Last year, New York city opened its first pet-inclusive homeless shelter By Faye Beard Christine Kim, MSW, knows well the choice many unhoused individuals face when deciding to keep their pets with them—no matter what. “Many people experiencing homelessness are even...

Violence in Schools: Social Workers Need to be Part of the Change

Violence in Schools: Social Workers Need to be Part of the Change

By Sue Coyle At 13, eighth-grader Melissa* is no stranger to lockdown drills—drills where students and staff practice what they would do if an active shooter was on campus. She says the drills occur monthly, more frequently at the beginning of the school year, and are...

Categories