Racial microaggressions and black social work students: a call to social work educators for proactive models informed by social justice

ABSTRACT

With efforts to create and sustain racial diversity and inclusive practices at institutions of higher education, a corollary emphasis on proactive implementations to support students of color in these environments is essential. Informed by a commitment to social justice, there are rich opportunities for social work to take leadership in strategizing new ways of approaching and prioritizing the wellness and success of students of color. This paper serves to explore the impact of racism specific to Black students by applying the theoretical lens of Racial Battle Fatigue (RBF) to challenge social work education in confronting racialized experiences within their programs. A modified, context-specific framework is proposed that (1) defines microaggressions in social work education programs, 2) prompts critically informed dialogue to enhance how social work as a profession understands the prevalence and role of microaggressions in social work educational contexts, and (3) explores considerations for the unique needs and challenges of Black social work students in an effort to inform strategies to most effectively recruit, retain, support and empower.

KEYWORDS:

• Black perspectives
• race and ethnicity
• social justice
• students

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Shena Leverett Brown

Shena Leverett Brown is a Ph. D. candidate in the School of Social Work at the University of Georgia. A licensed clinical social worker, Brown has spent over 20 years providing behavioral health treatment in a variety of settings.  Her research interests include racial microaggressions and professional wellness factors among social workers and other helping professionals.

Zoe Johnson

Zoe Johnson is the Director of Field Education in the School of Social Work at the University of Georgia. A licensed clinical social worker, Johnson spent over ten years in higher education administration supporting student access to services and engaging social justice initiatives.  Her scholarship is centered on the social supports of African American students in predominantly white institutional environments.

Shari E. Miller

Shari E. Miller is Associate Dean and an Associate Professor in the School of Social Work at the University of Georgia.  Her research interests include social work education, professional socialization, social work culture and workforce, critical thinking, ethical decision-making and ecological issues.