The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is the largest association of professional social workers. Our members serve all communities and all populations. Here you can find the latest news from NASW's Minnesota Chapter. Members of the media can contact kgoodenough.naswmn@socialworkers.org for interviews, comments and questions.
The NASW MN Chapter is pleased to offer a short-term remote Summer Fellowship in Political Action designed to provide hands-on experience in advocacy, civic engagement, and the endorsement process. This fellowship is ideal for an emerging professional or student interested in the intersection of social work values and public policy. The fellow will play an active role in supporting our political action committee’s work to evaluate and endorse candidates for elected office in Minnesota who align with social work priorities. Key Responsibilities: Support the planning and coordination of candidate endorsement p...
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This June, social workers from across the country will gather in Washington, DC for the 2026 NASW National Conference, June 10–13 at the Marriott Marquis. This year's theme, "Beyond the Breaking Point: Connection Through Purpose and Power," centers the resilience, connection, and collective strength that define our profession. Four days of dynamic sessions, networking opportunities, and professional development await, and we want to make sure you are part of it. If you have colleagues or peers who are not yet NASW members, this is a great event to share with them as well. Conference registration includes ...
NASW Minnesota Chapter is seeking members from across the state with varied experience and expertise to help lead and represent our Chapter! Previous board or leadership experience is not required. All nominees will be asked to complete a brief application, and those slated on the ballot will be voted upon by Chapter Election in May. Nominate yourself or a colleague by April 19th, 2026 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PTKGRVM Open Positions to begin July 1, 2026 1-year Board Terms: BSW Student Represen...
As our state continues to recover from the challenges brought on by Operation Metro Surge, we have been reminded just how strong and compassionate our community truly is. In the midst of difficult circumstances, we have witnessed remarkable support—not only within the networks we have built together, but also from friends and allies far beyond our immediate community.
Thanks to your advocacy, we are one step closer to ensuring professional title accuracy for county social workers in Minnesota. While we celebrate this win, our work isn't done. The bill now heads to the House Floor, and we need to make sure every Representative understands why this is important for our profession.
President Trump and Border Czar Tom Homan have announced that they plan to end “Operation Metro Surge”, the federal operation that flooded Minnesota, especially the Twin Cities, with thousands of federal immigration and customs enforcement officers since early December. For months, this large-scale federal enforcement operation has deeply impacted individuals, families, and communities across Minnesota, creating fear, instability, and significant harm. The deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti at the hands of federal agents have led to significant backlash against the operation. Support for ending this occupation has garnered international attention, with people across the country and the globe sending love letters to Minnesota.
At NASW-MN we are fielding calls and messages from our colleagues in other regions and states asking us about what our work looks like in these trying times. Despite how much you may have read in the news about what the situation is like in our state, especially in our large cities, those of us who are in the middle of this ongoing federal operation know that what you are seeing is only the tip of the iceberg compared to what Social Workers and community members in MN are actually facing.
We are heartbroken and outraged by the killing of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, community member, and caregiver who was fatally shot by federal agents in Minneapolis on January 24, 2026. Mr. Pretti’s life was dedicated to healing others — caring for veterans and contributing to the health and wellbeing of our community. He died as he lived, striving to protect others from harm.
Today, another U.S. citizen was killed by federal immigration enforcement. This wasn’t an isolated incident and reflets a dangerous pattern that threatens community safety and public trust.
NASW-MN has partnered with community organizations to identify those best equipped to provide support during this crisis. We are sharing this list for anyone seeking support, looking to get involved, or interested in making a donation.
The National Association of Social Workers–Minnesota Chapter stands with our community in mourning the violent death of an unarmed woman, Renee Nicole Good, killed by federal agents in Minneapolis. This tragedy, and the broader federal enforcement actions that are unfolding across our city—including the use of force near public schools—have caused profound harm, fear, and disruption for our clients, colleagues, and neighbors. Schools have closed, families are afraid to leave their homes, and the need for safety rooted in care has never been more urgent.
National Association of Social Workers Minnesota Chapter stands with our community in mourning the violent death of Renee Nicole Good that occurred on January 7 in Minneapolis at the hands of federal agents.
The U.S. Department of Education has proposed removing MSW and DSW degrees from the "Professional Degree" category under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). We want to clarify what this means for our profession.
Missed our 2025 Legislative Recap? You can now watch the full recording and count it toward your Independent Study CEUs. The event covered key policy wins, challenges, and what’s ahead for Minnesota’s social work community. Watch the 2025 Legislative Recap: View Recording Thank you to all who joined us live for this year’s Legislative Recap—and to our incredible partners who helped make this powerful advocacy event possible! Your presence and support underscore the importance of collective action and professional engagement in shaping policies that impact our communities. For photos and more details, visit our...
Are you passionate about systems change, policy advocacy, leadership, or organizational development? NASW-MN is now accepting intern applications for the 2025–2026 year! This is a valuable opportunity for students interested in macro practice—including administration, leadership, advocacy, and organizing—to gain hands-on experience with a mission-driven team. Interested? Reach out to Dr. KG at kgoodenough.naswmn@socialworkers.org as soon as possible to learn more and apply! *We believe in paid internships and currently offer a $2,000 stipend.Applications for 2025 are closed, but we will be accepting applicatio...