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

Opinion Writing as Advocacy

Opinion writing gives social workers a unique opportunity: to move beyond reaction and into purposeful advocacy.

There are over 28 newspapers/publications you can engage with. 

Newspaper list and links!

Op-eds- let you frame the conversation, naming both what you oppose and what you support.

Commentaries-connect the moment to our values, showing how social work expertise brings clarity and direction. 

Letters to the Editor-keep issues alive in public debate and make sure decision-makers know our communities are paying attention. 


The NASW-SD Advocacy Committee - Third Wednesday of the month (8am CST)

        • 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

Email Melissa if you are interested in joining the advocacy committee. melissajungemannrenes@gmail.com

Advocacy Resources

Register to Vote

 

South Dakota Legislative Process

Participate in your Advocacy Committee by emailing us at melissajungemannrenes@gmail.com

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

 

Op Eds


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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