March 1, 2022 at 11:34 a.m.

In Honor of Social Work Month and Women’s History Month

Dear CSSW Community,

Each year, the month of March gives us the opportunity to honor both the social work profession and the contributions of womxn activists across the United States. We firmly endorse this year’s Social Work Month theme: “The Time is Right for Social Work.”

As we continue to witness systemic and institutionalized anti-Black racism, grapple with a public health pandemic that continues to disproportionately ravage communities of color, perceive blatant attacks on voting rights across the U.S., and bear witness to conflicts and famine plaguing so many countries around the world, the time is right for social workers. There is a great need for culturally humble clinicians, policy analysts, community organizers, and program developers. And these critical needs are all met by social workers.

We similarly celebrate this year’s theme for Women’s History Month: “Providing Healing, Promoting Hope.” This apt recognition pays homage to the myriad ways that women around the world have been caregivers and motivators throughout history. It is also a tribute to the frontline workers, many of whom are women, who have provided such compassionate care during the ongoing COVID pandemic – for some, at the cost of their own health and even their lives.

It seems fitting that these two themes coincide in the same month, as social workers heal and bring hope to individuals and communities every day. This March, please join us in celebrating the many women and social workers who continue to fight for civil rights, voting rights, and social, economic, environmental and racial justice.

In community,

Melissa Begg

Dean & Professor

Karma Lowe

Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Community Engagement