President’s
MESSAGE
Dear Members: This month we celebrate Social Work Month—a time dedicated to recognizing the contributions we social workers have made to the field and in our communities at large. When I was a graduate student, I sat in classes with people transitioning from other fields of work because they realized being a part of the Social Work profession was their life calling. Now, I see many of those students among the ranks of our members. As members of NASW-NJ, each of us are one amongst more than 6,000 members across the state, creating a presence that cannot be ignored or silenced. We are a profession that loves what we do, recognizes our impact, and rises to the challenges in front of us. We do not shy away from tackling discrimination and fighting injustice. We are a profession of doers and we work tirelessly in the service of others. We continue to be at the table during grass roots initiatives, at the forefront of policy and legislative discussions, and champion change on both a micro and macro level.
Nkechi Okoli, MSW, LSW
As we transition from Black History Month to Social Work Month, I would be remiss if I did not take the opportunity to acknowledge some of the African American pioneers in our field. Trailblazers like Mary Church Terrell, George Edmund Haynes, Thyra J. Edwards, and Dorothy Height have played a crucial role in the progress of not only African Americans in this country, but all people who have experienced varying forms of discrimination and injustice. Let us all continue their legacy and the legacy of all those who have paved the way for the work we do. This month, I leave you with the words of former President Barack Obama: “Rejoice in this opportunity to change the world. If we stick with it, even if we can’t always see it ourselves, we will change the world for the better!” Change only happens if we make the decision to try. Let us continue to be the light amongst the darkness and the people rooting for the progress of the communities we serve. I am proud to be a Social Worker and a part of this growing community of servant leaders. I look forward to seeing you at one of the many events taking place during Social Work Month and at our Annual Conference this April.
Sincerely, Nkechi Okoli
4 March 2020 || www.naswnj.org www.naswnj.org
