I am a student  residing in Ohio, deeply concerned about the looming threat to academic freedom, due to proposed companion bills SB 1 & HB 6. These pieces of legislation, while ostentatiously aimed at enhancing Ohio’s higher education, in fact, concentrate excessive authority into the hands of politicians, causing a discernible harm to social work programs' ability to maintain accreditation. 

As a student perusing a degree in social work, these bills risk the very tenets of our profession: diversity, equity, and inclusion. Social Work Program accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) necessitates content in diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential elements, ensuring that social workers are equipped with the requisite knowledge and skills to serve diverse populations effectively.

This unbalanced legislation not only undermines the integrity of our profession but risks the lives of those we serve. The consequence of this legislation could implicate social work programs in losing accreditation, leaving upcoming social workers underprepared and the communities they serve, underserved.

I urge you to consider the drastic implications of these bills and take a determined stance against them. Strengthening academic freedom and accreditation of social work programs in Ohio helps to enhance the intellectual diversity and quality of service delivered to our people. Let's act now to preserve the integrity of our profession and ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, beliefs, and identity, has a seat at the table. Please sign this petition to oppose Ohio's SB 1 & HB 6 Bills.