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Published on : October 17, 2023

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As members of the Social Work Leadership Roundtable (i.e., American Academy of Social Work and Social Welfare, Association of Social Work Boards, Association of Baccalaureate Social Work Program Directors, Council on Social Work Education, Group for the Advancement of Doctoral Education in Social Work, Grand Challenges for Social Work, National Association of Deans and Directors of Schools of Social Work, National Association of Social Workers, Social Work Collective to Advance Research: Deans & Directors Group, Society for Social Work and Research)—we stand in solidarity in calling for peace and safety, and against terrorism and the intentional and atrocious violation of human rights and harm. 

The well-being of Israeli and Palestinian people is deeply intertwined. Living in this shared region, there is immense suffering, adversity, fear, and heart-breaking loss. As social work leaders and professionals we stand together in support of the human right to live in safety, with dignity, and to have basic human needs met. The violence and suffering unfolding in the region represent a humanitarian crisis with global reach. We know all too well that this violence will destroy families and communities and impose long-term impacts on mental health. We reiterate our commitment to safety, security, and dignity for all within a context of peaceful coexistence. We extend our profound sympathies to students and educators in our member programs who have been affected directly or indirectly by this violence.

The courage and compassion of social workers in Israel and Palestine have made a difference in the lives of the individuals, families, and communities suffering from this conflict. We extend our deepest support to social workers in Israel and Palestine and hope that they will find ways to support each other in establishing peaceful relationships; countering genocide; and ensuring safety, dignity, and well-being of people. We affirm our belief in people’s right to a dignified life free from fear and hope for peace among Israelis and Palestinians and all peoples.

American Academy of Social Work and Social Welfare
Association of Baccalaureate Social Work Program Directors
Association of Social Work Boards
Council on Social Work Education
Grand Challenges for Social Work
Group for the Advancement of Doctoral Education in Social Work
National Association of Deans and Directors of Schools of Social Work
National Association of Social Workers
Social Work Collective to Advance Research: Deans & Directors Group
Society for Social Work and Research

Also recognizing statement by the International Federation of Social Workers: Solidarity with social workers in Israel and Palestine – International Federation of Social Workers (ifsw.org)