Dear NASW Board of Directors,

We are writing to express our deep disappointment and concern regarding the inadequate statement from the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), only located within their Linkedin account,  to the tragic death of Nex Benedict (see attached “policy” statement). As an organization dedicated to advocating for social justice and the well-being of individuals, families, and communities, NASW has a responsibility to do no harm and to denounce acts of violence and uphold the values of equality, justice, and human dignity.

Nex Benedict, a vibrant and beloved member of the transgender community, tragically lost their life to a brutal beating fueled by transphobic hate. Nex, known for their advocacy and resilience, was targeted in a senseless act of violence, succumbing to injuries inflicted by individuals driven by bigotry and intolerance. Their untimely death serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive discrimination and violence faced by transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. It is a poignant call to action for society to confront and dismantle the systemic prejudices that threaten the lives and dignity of transgender people everywhere. Yet, NASW's response to this tragedy has been disappointingly muted. The lack of a strong, unequivocal statement condemning violence and discrimination against individuals like Nex Benedict sends a distressing message to social workers across the nation. It undermines our profession's commitment to social justice and reinforces a culture of complacency in the face of injustice.

In times of crisis and moral urgency, it is imperative that NASW demonstrates leadership by speaking out forcefully against acts of violence, discrimination, and systemic oppression. Anything less is a betrayal of the principles and values that our profession stands for. As social workers, we have a duty to advocate for the most vulnerable members of society and to challenge systems of power and privilege that perpetuate harm and inequality.

Therefore, we urge the NASW Board of Directors to take immediate action by:

- Issuing a public statement condemning the violence and discrimination that led to Nex Benedict's death, and affirming NASW's commitment to advocating for the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their identity or background.
- Implementing comprehensive anti-discrimination and anti-violence training programs for NASW members, aimed at raising awareness, promoting cultural competency, and fostering a more inclusive and equitable practice environment.
Strengthening partnerships with organizations and communities that are working to combat violence and discrimination against marginalized groups, and actively supporting initiatives to address the root causes of systemic oppression and injustice.
Furthermore, let it be abundantly clear: silence in the face of injustice is tantamount to complicity. As social workers, we are duty-bound to confront systemic oppression and stand in unwavering solidarity with the marginalized and oppressed. The absence of a robust, unequivocal denouncement from NASW not only fails the memory of Nex Benedict but also sends a chilling message of indifference to the countless victims of discrimination and violence. Therefore, I implore all social workers to take decisive action by canceling their NASW memberships until the organization demonstrates a genuine commitment to justice and equality. Our profession cannot afford to be associated with an organization that remains silent in the face of such egregious violations of human dignity. It is time for NASW to recognize that our collective voice will not be silenced, and that our demand for action is non-negotiable.

It is utterly reprehensible that NASW, an organization purportedly dedicated to social justice and equality, has failed to unequivocally condemn the anti-trans agenda that contributed to the tragic death of Nex Benedict. By remaining silent or passive in the face of such bigotry and hatred, NASW not only abdicates its moral responsibility but actively enables the perpetuation of violence and discrimination against transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. This complicity is a stain on the reputation of our profession and a betrayal of the core principles of social work. NASW must be held accountable for its inaction and its tacit endorsement of policies and attitudes that dehumanize and endanger the lives of transgender people. Anything less than a resounding denouncement of anti-trans bigotry is an affront to the values we claim to uphold and an abandonment of our duty to advocate for the most vulnerable among us.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I trust that NASW will heed the voices of its members and take decisive action to uphold the values of justice, equality, and human rights that lie at the heart of our profession.

Sincerely,

Concerned Social Workers,

Anna King, MSW, LCSW-S, Doctoral Student

Christina E. Lipe, LCSW, Doctoral Student

Diana Muniz-Walls, MSW, MaPH, Doctoral Student

Kristen De Long, LMSW-C, Doctoral Student

Jenna Benoit, LICSW, Doctoral Student

Margarete Schnauck, LCSW, Doctoral Student

Matia Wilson, MSW, LCSW, Doctoral Student

Miriam Osina, LCSW, Doctoral Student

Yenilshia Firpo-Greenwood, LICSW, Doctoral Student

Catherine Carballeira, PhD, LCSWR, MCASAC

 

 

 

 

 

NASW's Statement:

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/national-association-of-social-workers_scared-for-our-kids-anger-mounts-after-activity-7166510298240110592-SyxD?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop

Only reference on NASW website:

https://www.socialworkers.org/News/News-Releases/ID/2863/NASW-supports-the-family-of-Nex-Benedict-and-Darryl-George#:~:text=Social%20workers%20are%20bound%20by%20the%20NASW%20Code,to%20bring%20equal%20justice%20and%20treament%20for%20all.%22

 

 

NASW supports the family of Nex Benedict and Darryl George
Feb 23, 2024
 
A message from NASW CEO Anthony Estreet, PhD, MBA, LCSW-C:

NASW stands with the family of Nex Benedict, a non-binary student in Oklahoma who died after a fight in a high school bathroom. 

We also stand in support of Texas student Darryl George, a Black student who suffered through in-school suspension because he refused to cut his dreadlocks.

A judge ruled the school did not violate the CROWN Act that prohibits discrimination based on hair texture and styles. We disagree with that ruling. 

Several states are passing and considering laws that discriminate against youth who are LGBTQIA2S+, prohibit education about racism that is deeply embedded in our great nation’s history, and advancement of antiracism and diversity, equity and inclusion.

Social workers are bound by the NASW Code of Ethics to respect the dignity and worth of all people and challenge social injustice, including discrimination. 

NASW will continue to advocate for youth such as Nex and Darryl, even in our often divisive political environment. We will continue to push to bring equal justice and treament for all."

 
The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), in Washington, DC, is the largest membership organization of professional social workers. It promotes, develops, and protects the practice of social work and social workers. NASW also seeks to enhance the well-being of individuals, families, and communities through its advocacy.