NASW-MN, in alignment with NASW National, is appalled by many of the executive orders issued by President Trump since January as well as recent congressional budget proposals. These actions are an affront to our professional code of ethics and core values. We have heard from many social workers across the state who are alarmed by attacks on immigrant communities, transgender individuals, DEI initiatives, Medicaid funding, and more. Discriminating against or restricting services for historically disadvantaged and marginalized communities violates our ethical responsibility to advocate for vulnerable populations.
As social workers, it is our ethical responsibility to advocate for changes in policy and legislation to improve social conditions to meet basic human needs and promote social justice. Proposed cuts to Medicaid and other social support programs will hurt low-income communities the most, contradicting social workers’ ethical responsibility to advocate for healthcare access. These reductions would inflict immense harm to both the patients who rely on these services and the social workers dedicated to their care. We believe healthcare is a human right, and we cannot allow these vital services to be destroyed. We are also outraged by the ongoing attacks on transgender individuals, including executive orders restricting healthcare for, criminalizing, and marginalizing transgender community members. Social workers value the dignity and worth of all human beings, which means recognizing the full spectrum of gender identity and protecting individuals’ right to live as their authentic selves. It is our duty to reject demonizing and othering rhetoric about the transgender community and push for policies that uphold the dignity of all human beings.
Furthermore, NASW-MN stands against deeply harmful deportation policies and attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). These actions disproportionately impact communities of color, immigrants, and other vulnerable populations by deepening existing disparities; creating fear, instability, and hardship; and undermining progress toward racial justice.
As social workers, we are ethically obligated to advocate for and support those impacted by these harmful agendas. Our profession is rooted in the values of social justice, dignity and worth of all people, and integrity which compel us to stand against policies that marginalize and harm individuals, families, and communities. We call upon social workers, community members, lawmakers, mental health professionals, and allied organizations to take action. Support inclusive policies. Provide resources for affected individuals. Challenge harmful narratives. Contact legislators. Participate in community efforts. Stand in solidarity with those facing discrimination, deportation, and systemic harm. Together, we can build a society rooted in justice, equity, and humanity.
Resources:
NASW-MN calls to action
Democracy 2025 response center
NASW National responds to Trump Administration Executive Orders