2023 House Resolution 54

Whereas, The social work profession exists to protect the rights and humanity of everyone, with a particular dedication to serving those most marginalized; and

Whereas, Social workers enter the profession because they have a strong desire to help empower individuals, families, communities, and our nation overcome issues that prevent them from reaching their full potential; and

Whereas, Social workers follow a code of ethics that call on them to fight social injustice and respect the dignity and worth of all people; and

Whereas, This year’s Social Work Month theme “Social Work Breaks Barriers,” embodies the spirit of the profession’s challenge to structures that cause hardships for everyday people, and honors the labor of social workers in progressing forward movements for racial, gender, and socioeconomic justice; and

Whereas, Social workers, throughout history, have worked within organizations promoting justice and alongside politicians, advocates, and other leaders alike to help communities overcome natural disaster, economic distress, and political divisiveness; and

Whereas, School social workers have worked relentlessly with vulnerable populations including children during the pandemic; and

Whereas, Social workers contribute greatly to the nation’s healthcare system, and played a crucial role in local, state, and national responses to COVID-19, assisting individuals with issues pertaining to physical health, emotional health, and general well-being; and

Whereas, Social workers are the largest group of mental health care providers in the United States, working daily to help thousands of Americans overcome mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety; and

Whereas, Social workers are on the frontlines of the nation’s opioid addiction crisis, helping people get the treatment they need and prevail over substance use disorders; and

Whereas, Social workers help people cope with death and grief and helped people and communities recover from natural disasters that are increasingly fueled by our warming climate, including hurricanes, drought and flooding; and

Whereas, Social Workers have helped this nation live up to its values by advocating for equal rights for all, including Black, Indigenous, and other people of color, people who are LBGTQIA2S+, or people who follow various faiths; and

Whereas, Social work is one of the fastest growing professions in the United States, with over 708,000 current social workers in the U.S., and more than 60,00 expected to enter the profession over the next decade; and

Whereas, Social workers are prepared to continue their efforts in aiding the nation towards greater equity; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare March 2023 as National Social Work Month in the state of Michigan. We recognize the numerous contributions made by America’s social workers.