Analysis of Social Work Purpose and Values

Tate, S. A. (2016). ‘I can't quite put my finger on it’: Racism's touch. Ethnicities, 16(1),68-85. https://doi:10.1177/1468796814564626

Hiller, C., & Carlson, E. (2018). THESE ARE INDIGENOUS LANDS: Foregrounding settler colonialism and Indigenous sovereignty as primary contexts for Canadian environmental social work. Canadian Social Work Review / Revue
Canadienne De Service Social, 35(1), 45-70. https://doi:10.2307/26593191

Write about the above two peer-reviewed articles. This is an essay assignment, so you
must include an introduction, conclusion and thesis statement. Also, apply one week’s
unit knowledge, values, and skills to the practice of critical social work and do not choose
any readings from the week these articles are presented. Use APA 7th edition formatting
to substantiate and cross-reference your ideas and opinions.

● Half a page for your introduction (.5 page)

● Discuss how each peer-reviewed article examines the knowledge perspective that
should be used to guide social work practice. In other words, what is each author
arguing that you can apply when practicing social work, and why is this
important? (2 pages)
● •Identify and analyze the similarities and differences between the two peer-
reviewed articles. (2 pages)

Full Answer Section

       

Knowledge Perspective and Social Work Practice

Tate (2016) emphasizes the subtle and often invisible ways in which racism can manifest in everyday interactions. She argues that racism is not always overt or intentional but can be embedded in cultural norms, values, and institutions. This perspective highlights the importance of being aware of our own biases and the ways in which they can influence our interactions with clients.

Hiller & Carlson (2018) focus on the significance of settler colonialism in shaping the experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada. They argue that social work practice must acknowledge the historical and ongoing impacts of settler colonialism on Indigenous communities. This perspective emphasizes the need for decolonization and the importance of empowering Indigenous peoples to determine their own path.

Similarities and Differences

Both articles share a common theme of challenging dominant narratives and advocating for a more critical understanding of social issues. However, they differ in their specific focus. Tate's article examines the subtle and pervasive nature of racism, while Hiller & Carlson's article focuses on the historical and ongoing impacts of settler colonialism.

Conclusion

The articles by Tate and Hiller & Carlson provide valuable insights into the knowledge perspective that should guide social work practice. By acknowledging the systemic nature of racism and settler colonialism, social workers can better understand the challenges faced by marginalized communities and develop effective interventions.

It is essential for social workers to be aware of their own biases and to actively challenge dominant narratives. By adopting a critical perspective, social workers can contribute to creating a more just and equitable society.

 

Sample Answer

        The articles by Tate (2016) and Hiller & Carlson (2018) delve into the complexities of racism and settler colonialism in the context of social work practice.
Both authors argue for the importance of adopting a critical perspective that acknowledges the systemic nature of these issues. By examining these articles, we can gain valuable insights into the knowledge perspective that should guide social work practice and the ways in which racism and settler colonialism continue to shape our society