Description
The decoloniality working group in social work seeks to dismantle the continued influence of power, colonialism, slavery, and capitalism on the profession. These oppressive systems have perpetuated Western biases and social inequalities, profoundly shaping how social work is practiced and understood.
Addressing these systemic injustices requires a critical examination of social work's historical context, acknowledging its roots in colonial practices and unequal power structures. This includes recognizing the problematic past and its enduring impact on contemporary realities.
By integrating decolonial perspectives into social work education, research, and practice, we can foster a more equitable and just future. This involves confronting past injustices, critically assessing present realities, and collectively envisioning a future free from the legacies of oppression.
International social workers are crucial to this process of change. They must be equipped with unbiased knowledge and empowered to challenge oppressive systems. As researchers and educators, we must embrace dialogue, critical perspectives, and a commitment to fostering a more equitable and inclusive social work profession.
Objectives
The primary objective is to bring together researchers interested in a decolonial approach to social work. Together, we aim to foster critical examination of unequal power structures within social work research, education, and practice, with a focus on acknowledging and addressing the oppressions of coloniality.
Our goal is to empower social work students and practitioners with unbiased knowledge and practices, ultimately promoting social justice, human rights, and respect for diversity by integrating Indigenous perspectives. This work will contribute to achieving equity, justice, empowerment, and inclusive, sustainable shared futures.
Activities
Audience
This SIG is open to researchers, educators, students, and other staff involved in social work research, education, and practice, as well as all social work stakeholders. We encourage researchers to join first, given the ECSWRA's research focus.
Become a Part of the Change
We invite you to join our SIG. Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable profession that empowers all communities with respect for humanity.
Contacts:
For further information or inquiries, please contact bernard.mayaka@han.nl
Convenors
Mayaka, Bernard: HAN University (Netherlands).
Viviane Menezes de Amorim: HAN University (Netherlands).
Members
Ana Olea Fernandez: Essex University (UK).
James Kutu Obeng: University of Jyväskylä (Finland).
Priscilla Osei: Helsinki University (Finland).
Aniek Santema: HAN University (Netherlands)
