Why
Social Workers Should Run for Office
NASW encourages social
workers to run for office because social workers are a profession
of trained communicators with concrete ideas about how to empower
communities. Social workers understand social problems and know
human relations, and the commitment to improving the quality of
life brings a vital perspective to public decision-making.
Social workers across
the country serve in a range of political institutions, from school
boards to city and county offices and state legislatures. There
are six social workers in the US House and Senate.
Social workers make
good political candidates because they:
- are well educated
- are articulate and
experienced in public speaking
- are comfortable
at persuasion
- are knowledgeable
about their communities
- understand social
problems and are committed to social justice
- understand how policies
affect individuals and communities
Social workers run
for public office because they:
- are attracted to
politics through an issue or cause.
- realize they are
just as capable as many officeholders.
- see the opportunity
to make changes on a broader scale.
- want to provide
leadership to improve their community.
NASW also encourages
social workers to offer their professional expertise to campaigns.
Social workers can use their skills as campaign managers, volunteer
coordinators, and political directors. These jobs can also translate
into legislative jobs in which social workers can shape policy,
and help constituents by working with federal, state and local
agencies to get individuals appropriate assistance. Social workers
can also translate their involvement in campaigns into key appointments
in state and local agencies in which they can oversee key government
agencies to influence the practice of social work and seek social
justice.
Contact NASW at pace@naswdc.org or 800/638-8799, ext. 418 for
the contact information of other social workers who have run for
office.
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