Ethnicity & Race Policy and News

There are 140 million poor and low-income people in the United States. As long as America ignores this statistic and refuses to fully address it, we all live in an impoverished democracy, say organizers of the Poor People’s Campaign (PPC).

NASW leaders and staff participated in the PPC’s assembly and march in Washington, DC, in June 2022 to support and raise awareness of its mission.

Recently released exam pass rates from the Association of Social Work Boards may explain the underrepresentation. In Illinois, 42% of Black test takers pass the exam the first time around, compared to to 82% of white test takers.

"Not passing the first time means you might lose your job," said Cassie Walker, who identifies as Black and queer. Another possible effect is a Black social worker feels defeated and gives up the profession.

The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) on August 5 published data in a 2022 ASWB Exam Pass Rate Analysis. The data revealed glaring disparities in pass rates among racial groups, particularly for Black test takers. It also raised concerns about disparities in pass rates for other demographics, including social workers who are older adults.

Join a panel of social work experts to learn how social workers can address hate against people who are Asian American and/or Pacific Islander (AAPI).

Moderator: NASW President Mildred "Mit" Joyner

The memories of those murdered in Buffalo reaffirm our efforts to change policies that allow such tragedies to occur. We must work to eradicate the violent radicalization and systemic racism that continue to destroy so many lives.

Judge Brown Jackson will be the first Black woman to serve on the highest court and has demonstrated a fair-minded approach to justice.