Social Workers Respond to Attack in Orlando

The National Association of Social Workers – Florida Chapter (NASW-FL) is devastated by the attack on the Orlando
night club.  This senseless act impacts the lives of all Americans. The blame for this tragic act will encompass terrorism, guns, mental health, hatred and isolation. Teachings of dignity and worth of a person in our homes, schools, churches and in laws passed by state legislatures, city and county commissions and school boards are critical for healthy people and healthy communities.

As professional social workers we are guided by a code of ethics which tell us we must treat each person in a caring and respectful fashion mindful of individual differences. We agree not to practice, condone, facilitate or collaborate with any form of discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, political belief, religion, immigration status or mental physical disability. You may ask where do we go from here, what do we do next? Moving forward NASW FL encourages communities to come together. Our ethical standards offer this path, to recognize the central importance of human relationships.

We should seek to strengthen relationships among people in a purposeful effort to promote, restore, maintain, and enhance the well-being of individuals, families, organizations, communities and our country.

Responding to the Pulse Nightclub Killings

The mass shooting in Orlando is a horrific act rooted in homophobia and hate. Many innocent lives were taken and many more are struggling in critical condition to survive. As we attempt to bond together many of us are asking what’s next, what can we do?

As community members and professional social workers we have many ways we can help. NASW- FL encourages everyone to do what you can and ensure your own support and help.

In the immediate days to follow help is needed in critical areas. Help will continue to be needed in the weeks and months to come. Here are 8 important steps you can take:

• Blood and plasma donations

If you are able to donate blood or plasma, whether in the Orlando area or not, please do so. In Orlando there are multiple oneblood centers. For centers in your area call 1-888-936-6283. Please note that sexually active gay and bisexual men are still barred from donating. Get involved in policy, it impacts daily lives.

• Counseling:

NASW- FL has reached out to Orlando Gay & Lesbian Center. As their need for therapist over the coming week(s) evolve we will let you know via social media. If you are interested and able to volunteer time please stay tuned to our Facebook and Twitter feed for this direct request. Additionally if you are able to help in your area you can reach out to your local Gay & Lesbian Center to offer such assistance and support.

• Financial help for families of those who were murdered:

Equality Florida a statewide support and advocacy organization for the Lesbian, Gay Bisexual, and Transgender Community has established a GoFundMe account. Florida Equality is a well-respected and financially secure organization. All funds raised will go directly to the victims and families affected by this tragedy. Donate here: https://www.gofundme.com/PulseVictimsFund

• Support families and those in the hospital:

There are personal letters being delivered to people in the hospital through www.NVEEE.org.

• Speak up:

Whether in person or via social media, if you hear statements that are rooted in hatred speak up. Bigotry and oppression exists in part through silence alone. There is a long history of hatred for the LGBT community and every time a “joke” is made or a hateful statement is said without opposition, it is a signal of acceptance for that hatred.

• Ask questions:

If you are not familiar with the LGBT community and the oppression the community experiences ask questions, learn more, and become educated. Violence is rooted in ignorance. The more we know the more we can do.

• Create communities:

Differences are easy to see, but in doing so we often overlook the many similarities. They are opportunities to join together and create communities all around.

• Get involved:

Creating a peaceful world requires active engagement towards peaceful behaviors. There are a variety of ways one can get involved including stepping up in leadership roles in your communities or profession, work on policies locally and nationally, volunteer, and encourage everyone you know to vote in November.