By Jaelon Jackson
School of Social Work
Social workers and advocates eagerly awaited the return of Social Work Advocacy Day 2024, organized by the National Association of Social Workers Texas Chapter.
The event was held March 22, at The University of Texas at Austin and the Texas State Capitol. The day was filled with educational workshops, networking opportunities, and advocacy activities under the theme “Sticking Around for a Stronger Texas.”
Among the attendees were numerous students and faculty from The University of Texas at Arlington School of Social Work. They joined students, administrators, and volunteers who also seized the opportunity to connect with NASW-TX staff and volunteers over breakfast and coffee at the Thompson Conference Center Lyndon B. Johnson Auditorium.
Amidst the buzz of excitement, one UTA School of Social Work graduate student expressed her anticipation.
“I came down to social work advocacy day to see different populations be represented. I want my legislators to speak up for me,” Cassie Roth said.
Katie Pham, a sophomore at the UTA School of Social Work says it was rewarding to be able to meet so many other social workers in Texas.
“There are so many justice and human rights issues that we have in this time and day, and the fact they are as passionate about these issues as I am is very validating,” Pham said.
One of the highlights of the morning agenda was the Advocacy Presentation titled “We Voted! Now What?”
This session aimed to equip attendees with insights into effective advocacy strategies and actions following elections. Additionally, participants had the opportunity to engage in a legislative role play presentation and interview, simulating legislative office visits.
After a break for lunch, during which attendees were encouraged to schedule meetings with their legislators, the action moved to the Texas State Capitol for the afternoon agenda. At 12:30 p.m., the SWAD Rally took place at the South Steps, providing a platform for attendees to amplify their voices and advocate for social work issues.
The afternoon program continued with the Capitol Staff Round Table. The panel included social work capitol staff members who shared their experiences and insights into legislative advocacy.
Advocacy day impacted many in a positive way, including UTA Junior, Kai Santos.
“Being able to come to the capitol and hearing everyone’s amazing stories is really inspirational, and I just love being able to come out and make a difference,” Santos said.
Concluding the day's events was an interactive workshop titled “Cultivating 'Succu-cessful' and Sustainable Advocacy Efforts.”
SWAD 2024 proved to be a dynamic and informative event, bringing together social workers, advocates, and policymakers to drive positive change for the social work profession and the communities they serve.
