Social Justice Corner

As a program dedicated to social justice, advocacy, and support for disenfranchised people and communities, we, the students and faculty of the Master of Social Work program, stand in unwavering solidarity with all individuals facing systemic oppression. We recognize the profound contributions these individuals make to society, their resilience in navigating complex systems, and the numerous barriers they face due to their intersecting identities.

We affirm our commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive, and empowering environment for individuals and communities from all backgrounds and experiences, including those who are undocumented, racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQIA+, differently-abled, low-income, and others who face systemic oppression. We acknowledge the unique challenges these individuals encounter, including limited access to higher education, employment opportunities, healthcare, housing, and the constant threat of discrimination, stigmatization, and violence.

As future social workers and MSW Program Faculty, we pledge to advocate for the rights, dignity, and safety of all. We will work to create spaces where their voices are heard and amplified, and we will tirelessly advocate for policy changes that address the intersectional issues they face. We are committed to educating ourselves and others on the interconnectedness of identity factors such as immigration status, race, gender, sexuality, disability, age, and socioeconomic status, ensuring that our work is rooted in cultural humility, empathy, and a deep understanding of the needs of all marginalized individuals and communities.

Our program is dedicated to preparing social workers who will confront systems of oppression, challenge discriminatory practices, and work in partnership with individuals from all walks of life to ensure they have the opportunities and resources they deserve to succeed. To further support this mission, we embrace the guiding principles outlined in the NASW Code of Ethics: “Social workers should engage in social and political action that seeks to ensure that all people have equal access to the resources, employment, services, and opportunities they require to meet their basic human needs and to develop fully. Social workers should be aware of the impact of the political arena on practice and should advocate for changes in policy and legislation to improve social conditions to meet basic human needs and promote social justice” (NASW Code of Ethics, Section 6.04).

We stand with all of you. Your dreams are valid. Your presence is valuable. Your strength inspires us.

In solidarity,
The Students and Faculty of the Master of Social Work Program
California State University, Stanislaus