As a dedicated Social Worker, I have seen the role of public benefits in empowering families, notably my own. I’ve grown up in affordable housing in Baltimore, two brothers with disabilities solidifying my firsthand experience on how these benefits directly uplift communities. However, recent political climates, particularly under the Trump administration, present a significant threat to these indispensable lifelines. 

Human rights are at unprecedented risk, funding for our organizations, clients, and communities to thrive are also at risk. Social workers, the stalwarts of advocacy, have a crucial role to play. This is NOT the time to be silent! We need to mobilize! Whether you are acting on the local, national or global level doesn't matter. What matters is that you act!

The American Society on Aging stated that proposed budget cuts could cause roughly 700,000 people in low-income households to lose benefits. Aside from the immediate damage, these cuts would potentially force millions of seniors, people with disabilities, and hardworking families into poverty, thereby increasing homelessness. Powerful DEI initiatives are also underattack! The LBGTQ+ community is under attack! Without these initiatives, equity becomes less of a priority in the work that we do every day. 

Now is not the time for us to be silent; now is the time to stand against threats to our profession and the people we serve. Please add your voice and drive to the vital action of safeguarding our society’s essential public benefits and human rights. 

Share with other Social Workers and helping professionals that you know! 

Share with community members and empower them to use their voice.

Contact your local leaders and share your concerns! 

Let's make this a movement!

This is a state of emergency! 

Sign the petition and use hashtag #socialworkersagainsttrump in your advocacy! 

We will not remain silent.