03/03/2026
Happy Social Work Month!
🧡 Social Workers UPLIFT. DEFEND. TRANSFORM.
As I reflect on this year’s theme, I wish to praise, honor, and glorify the Almighty God for modeling what it means to be a trauma-informed social worker. He provided a divine blueprint for our work through His mission here on earth, which can be seen in the National Association of Social Workers’ (NASW’s) (2021) six foundational values and corresponding ethical principles found in the Code of Ethics– Service, to help people in need and address social problems; Social Justice, challenging social injustice and advocating for social change on behalf of vulnerable and oppressed populations; Dignity and Worth of the Person, treating every person in a caring and respectful fashion, mindful of individual differences and cultural diversity; promote clients' self-determination; Importance of Human Relationships, recognize that relationships are a central vehicle for change; Integrity, behaving in a trustworthy manner; and Competence, practicing only within areas of expertise and continually striving to increase professional knowledge and skills. Jesus’ principles also strongly align with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) (2014) six key principles of Trauma-Informed Care – Safety, Trustworthiness and Transparency, Peer Support, Collaboration and Mutuality, Empowerment, Voice, and Choice, and Cultural, Historical, and Gender Issues.
I am also filled with gratitude for the social workers who helped me to become the transformational leader I am today. This year, I wish to pay special homage to the social work educators, faculty, administrators, and scholars of The College of The Bahamas (now University of The Bahamas) – Class of 1998 & 2009, and Barry University – Class of 2015, who uplifted me when I wanted to quit, defended me when I was unjustly treated, and helped me transform into a consummate scholar and practitioner. Today, I am a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) student because they never gave up on me, even when I did not believe in myself; they encouraged me to keep going.
Finally, I wish to highlight my current cohort (BCLB) – Class of 2027, professors, faculty, and administrators in the School of Social Work at Barry University. You continue to be the wind beneath my wings. Your peer support, consultations, and expressions of love are what keep me coming back each week. To my professors, thank you for always challenging me to give my best and providing guidance when needed. Be assured that my clients, supervisees, and colleagues will be more empowered because of the investment you made in me. I pray that God will continue to bless you all for your labor of love. Happy Social Work Month!
References:
National Association of Social Workers. (2021). Code of ethics.
SAMHSA. (2014). Concept of trauma and guidance for a trauma-informed approach.
