Social Justice

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Social Work and the Police: It's "Both And"

  • 1.  Social Work and the Police: It's "Both And"

    Posted Jul 09, 2020 13:42
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    We are offering this commentary to further the current dialogue about the role of social work in law enforcement today. We -- Darlyne Bailey, Steve Burghardt, Charles E. Lewis, Jr., Terry Mizrahi -- are writing with strong conviction that a third way is possible, moving from "either/or" to a "both/and" perspective. Yes, social workers and the agencies they work for have too often been part of the problem as have schools, health care, and housing agencies. Yes, there needs to be an intentional, deliberate strategy to address the social ills, inequities and systemic disparities that have divided American society, starting with ending mass incarceration, demilitarizing the police, and ending the loss of rights of the formerly incarcerated. And yes, we can be an active and vocal collective force for change on the inside and on the outside, at the grassroots level and in the halls of political power. Read our full statement attached for more information. 

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    Terry Mizrahi, PhD
    Professor
    Former President, NASW
    New York NY
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