Advocacy

The social work profession was founded in social change. Throughout the profession’s history, social workers have sought to ensure that all people have equal access to the resources and opportunities that allow them to meet their basic needs. NASW upholds this challenge by advocating for the association to members of Congress and regulatory agencies that so often hold the authority to influence policy.

NASW has developed a policy agenda, which asserts the association’s advocacy priorities for the legislative cycle. NASW’s policy agenda is consistent with the NASW policies in Social Work Speaks, which is developed by members of the association at Delegate Assembly.

NASW SD Advocacy Action Center

The NASW-SD Advocacy Committee 

  • Provides oversight, strategies and research for Chapter's legislative and social justice activities
  • Develops strategies to increase member involvement in legislative process
  • Provides committee hearing testimony
  • Actively works with the lobbyist in establishing the positions NASW-SD will take on state and local legislation

The advocacy committee meets weekly during legislative session and closely follows legislation that affects the social work profession and those we serve.

NEW! This committee is actively working to continue activities throughout the year. 


June 2023 Advocacy Committee Report

Examples:

  • Ongoing meetings with Legislators 
  • Addressing emerging social justice or political issues
  • Expanding Social Work Day at the Capital

If you are interested in becoming involved, we highly encourage you to reach out to Terry Werner (twerner.naswsd@socialworkers.org).

Advocacy Resources

Register to Vote

 South Dakota Legislative Process

Participate in your Advocacy Committee by emailing us at twerner.naswsd@socialworkers.org

NASW National Advocacy

Visit the NASW National Action Center for key issues, current legislation, information on what actions you can take, and information on your elected officials.

Political Action for Candidate Election (PACE)

You can participate in electing candidates who are social workers or who support social workers!

Social Work Policy Resources

Social Work Policy Institute

Understanding Elected Power A Guide to Accountability (1)638684097241933224

Get to know members of PACE-SD

Click here to listen to members of the committee discuss PACE-SD!

The PACE Committee builds political power for social workers through:

Field organizers mobilizing social workers and our clients to vote

Contributions to candidates who agree with NASW policy positions

Political training for social workers


NASW-SD Advocacy efforts: 

South Dakota becomes the 2nd state to join the Social Work Licensure Compact!

Understanding Elected Power: A guide to accountability LINK

PDF GUIDE