NASW Policy Statement

The National Association of Social Workers broad-based commitment to affirmative action incorporates diverse groups who have been historically or are currently oppressed, underserved, and underrepresented, including people of color, people with disabilities, people who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender, women, older people, and people who are disadvantaged or oppressed because of life circumstances. This list in no way, however, reflects all groups who have been historically and currently oppressed.

– Social Work Speaks 2021-2023.

This statement lays the foundation for the intent and purpose of NASW’s policy for achieving diversity, equity and inclusion within the NASW national office, its chapters, its leadership and its membership.

Purpose

The purpose of the NASW-NC Equity and Inclusion Committee is to promote, value, and honor equity and inclusion within NASW-NC through education, policy development, and collaboration with other programs and committees. The Committee shall address issues affecting marginalized persons with whom the social work profession works including those institutions and agencies that serve them. 

Committee Membership

• Full members of the committee are members of NASW North Carolina. However, not yet members and guests are welcome to attend meetings and events.

• Committee members are expected to demonstrate a commitment to the committee by actively participating in Committee meetings, and creating and participating in personal and professional development in areas of equity, inclusion and social justice.

Goals

• To establish, implement and maintain equity and inclusion throughout the Chapter;
• To ensure that persons of color; people who are LGBTQ+; older persons; and other historically underrepresented groups are represented in all areas of the association including elected and appointed positions;
• To develop specific equitable and inclusive actions that apply to all levels of the Chapter;
• To have an annual report to the NASW-NC Board of Directors regarding the application of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policy.

Subcommittees

• Membership - Recruit inclusive and representative members to the E&I Committee, welcome and orient new members.
• Education - Recommend, develop and promote educational opportunities for social workers to learn how to demonstrate the understanding of cultural and ethnic diversity, racial equity and inclusion, cultural humility and critical self-reflection.
• Scholarship - This subcommittee helps carry out fundraising efforts for the NASW-NC Equity and Inclusion Award, solicitation of nominations, publicity surrounding the award winners and selection of the winners.
  

Questions about the Committee can be sent to lzingraff.naswnc@socialworkers.org