NASW-CA Statement Regarding Racist Remarks by L.A. Council Leader

The National Association of Social Workers, California Chapter (NASW-CA) stands in solidarity with the people of the County and City of Los Angeles. So many individuals of all ages, families, and communities are sharing the emotional pain caused by the recent racist and disparaging statements made by elected city council leaders and a local labor leader. As Professional Social Workers, we are committed to living up to our core values.  These include being competent, respecting the dignity and worth of all people, and advocating for social justice through ethical best practices and policies.  We respect and honor all people no matter their race, ethnicity, gender/sexual identity, or immigration status. We also demand that others in public service adhere to high levels of regard to all other human beings, irrespective of identities and cultures held. We believe and fully expect that those who choose to serve must do precisely that, serve.

As social workers, we are on the front lines to break through, dismantle, and transform systems that reinforce institutional racism, and we strive to uplift all oppressed groups.

There is no place for divisiveness nor bigotry in politics in the Los Angeles City Council or in any level of our government. Our elected officials cannot afford to be bystanders in the face of blatant racism and colorism that disrespects diverse individuals, parents, and children that they represent throughout our cities and our county. We call upon the members of NASW-CA and all social workers in California to hold spaces for dialogue about race and racism in our communities, to organize and respond to calls to actions meant to heal rifts that divide us, and to keep our elected officials accountable for their actions. The members of NASW-CA represent over 9,000 ethically-informed social workers and constituents who can be counted on to vote in support of those elected officials who stand for these core values of justice, morality, and respect.