Social workers in elected office are professionals who use their skills and knowledge to advocate for social justice and improve the well-being of individuals, families, and communities. They are involved in various levels of government, from local to national, and represent diverse backgrounds and perspectives. According to the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), there are hundreds of social workers in national, state and local elected offices1. Some of them are:
- Debbie Stabenow, a U.S. Senator from Michigan and a member of the Congressional Social Work Caucus. She is a leader in promoting mental health and addiction services, child nutrition, and environmental protection2.
- Karen Bass, a U.S. Representative from California and the founder of the Congressional Social Work Caucus. She is a champion of human rights, criminal justice reform, and health care access2.
- Barbara Lee, a U.S. Representative from California and a co-chair of the Congressional Social Work Caucus. She is a vocal advocate for peace, social justice, and global health2.
- Susan Davis, a U.S. Representative from California and a member of the Congressional Social Work Caucus. She is a supporter of education, veterans, and women’s rights2.
- Sylvia Garcia, a U.S. Representative from Texas and a member of the Congressional Social Work Caucus. She is a former judge and county commissioner who works on immigration, health care, and economic development issues2.
- Katie Hobbs, the Governor of Arizona and a former state senator. She is a former social worker who focuses on health care, education, and voting rights3.
- Kyrsten Sinema, a U.S. Senator from Arizona and a former state legislator. She is a former social worker who works on bipartisanship, national security, and veterans’ affairs3.
- Tony Thurmond, the Superintendent of Public Instruction in California and a former state assembly member. He is a former social worker who oversees the state’s public education system3.
These are just some examples of the many social workers who serve in elected office across the country. They demonstrate the values and principles of the social work profession in their leadership roles and policy making decisions. They also inspire other social workers to get involved in politics and civic engagement as a way of advancing social change.
Learn more:
1. socialworkers.org 2. socialworkers.org 3. socialworkers.org 4. bing.com 5. naswaz.socialworkers.org