Professional Philosophy

People work is what we do.

As social workers we operate on a very fine line. Within a moment we can help or harm; this is why we must listen and learn from one another…and tread respectfully. 

Over the past three years I have worked with a multitude of incredibly insightful people, individuals and families found victim to the challenges presented by the context of our past and present, all of whom have deeply informed my practice. I have recorded the injustices brought upon low-income communities by predatory private corporations; how public sovereignty is threatened by sheer greed, and the abandonment of our communities of color through disinvestment is more tactical than just “a lack of funding.” I understand, more now than ever, how important it is to hold those in power accountable for hurting our society, and it is my duty to uncover and stand against oppressive forces. In my work, I have facilitated discussion about the importance of brave space and recognizing one’s positionality in context; how mere awareness of intersectionality does nothing without conscious action; that, this identity alone has the ability to oppress regardless of my knowledge and intention. I have sat across from Housing Authority executives as they have begun to stand for the needs of their residents, and how they have invited people back into the processes that affect them most. This act alone is one of many reasons that I can keep going. I see change.

As a Critical Race Theory-informed social worker, I now recognize a person can be victim to many factors, whether systemic, interpersonal, and/or self-inflicted, and it is a person’s unique experience that should be recognized for what it is, was, and could become. Our work is so human, so embedded in our biological need to feel wanted and seen…hell, to survive, that my role in this is to acknowledge and give credence to your experience, and to remain a consistent supporter of your well-being because it’s only fair. This is how we keep each other going.

In reflection I understand that I am the bearer of many missteps, misinterpretations, and mistakes. I have been afforded many privileges that have hindered my awareness of those who haven’t been so fortunate.  Before each new opportunity, with each new client or community, I recognize that I am a visitor to this space…how I show my appreciation to those who have allowed me in is by providing an opportunity for change.

As my professional practice deepens, I understand that my role in any relationship provides only a partial context to the experience. Being afforded the opportunity to be a professional social worker allows me the power to negotiate, but also an incredible chance to listen and learn from others. I’ll be real, this is what I love about what I do…better yet, this is what I love about what we do. As social workers we aren’t afraid to be human, and we aren’t afraid to stand up for humanity.