What I Wish We Had Known: What Was Overlooked in DEI and Related Advocacy

I am grateful that Linda Grobman printed what follows. The commentary is not only meant for those in mental health professions. I hope you will find it holds relevance.

Read the full article on socialworker.com

Read the full article on socialworker.com

by SaraKay Smullens, MSW, LCSW, DCSW, CGP, CFLE, BCD

    (Editor’s note: This is the third “What I Wish” article by SaraKay Smullens. These articles address far-reaching issues affecting the social work profession.)

How has an anti-immigrant, specifically anti-Muslim, anti-BIPOC, antisemitic, anti-women’s choice conspiracy theory become U.S. policy, deeply threatening our precious rule of law and supporting the determination to bring back white male domination of America?

In preparing for a 2025 NASW-PA presentation entitled, “Staying Sane in a Time of Insanity,” I turned for guidance to America’s founding roots, our Declaration of Independence. In doing so, I found it interesting that this document does not say all men are born equal—it says, instead, that we are created equal—speaking I believe in theological terms, equality in relationship with our Creator, not in birth opportunities provided. Nothing in this brave declaration specified a God who favors one religion over another. Or, in fact, that one must adopt a faith.

In Matthew 22:21, when Jesus says, “Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s, and unto God the things that are God’s”—to me, Jesus references the distinction between our relationship with God and the inequalities of birth, surroundings, and opportunities. This underscores that life is neither fair nor just, that some are born with far more opportunities for success and fulfillment than others. But God wants justice and opportunity for each of us. It is up to the officials we elect to create these opportunities for safety and fulfillment. Social workers must be central in this quest, moving forward with knowledge, awareness, maturity and wisdom.

Read the full article on socialworker.com