Wednesday, March 20, 2024
With the 2024 election year quickly approaching, Dr. Tami Gouveia, CISWH director, advocates for increased representation of social workers in elected office. With their ability to effectively collaborate with a diverse range of civic sectors, social workers are well-equipped to navigate the complex world of politics.
Dr. Gouveia urges social workers to consider running for office or supporting their colleagues who do. The ability to empathize, navigate complex systems, and advocate for equitable policies that benefit all communities is a skill that should not go unnoticed.
Excerpt from “Why More Social Workers Should Run for Office” originally published on Social Work Today:
“Here’s why social workers make good legislators at all levels of government. We listen. We empathize with people’s lived experiences, their financial struggles, and the stress they’re facing. We understand how systems interact and affect people’s health and well-being. We’re pragmatic, and we care about our communities.
As social workers, we seldom end up in fields where we’re surrounded by other social workers. Whether it’s housing or job policy, we’re effective at partnering with other civic sectors because we have plenty of practice. We’re able to sit down with teachers, first responders, or faith leaders and bridge those gaps.”