Why Social Workers Should Run for Office
NASW encourages social workers to run for office because social workers are trained communicators with concrete ideas about how to empower communities. Social workers understand social problems and know human relations. Social workers' commitment to improving the quality of life brings a vital perspective to public decision-making.
Social workers across the country serve in a range of political institutions, from school boards to city and county offices and state legislatures.
Social workers make good political candidates because:
- They're well educated.
- They're often articulate and experienced in public speaking.
- They're comfortable with persuasion.
- They're knowledgeable about their communities.
- They understand social problems and are committed to social justice.
- They understand how policies affect individuals and communities.
Social workers run for public office because:
- They're attracted to politics through an issue or cause.
- They are as capable as many officeholders.
- They see the opportunity to make changes on a broader scale.
- They want to provide leadership to improve their communities.
NASW also encourages social workers to offer their professional expertise to campaigns. Social workers can use their skills as campaign managers, volunteer coordinators, and political directors. These jobs can also translate into legislative jobs in which social workers can shape policy, and help constituents by working with federal, state and local agencies to get individuals appropriate assistance. Social workers can also translate their involvement in campaigns into key appointments in state and local agencies in which they can oversee key government agencies to influence the practice of social work and seek social justice.
Connect with other social workers in politics
For the contact information of other social workers who have run for office, contact NASW at
pace@naswdc.org or 800-638-8799, ext. 418.