Whiteness in Social Work Table Talk

Join NASW-Maryland for a thoughtfully facilitated, small-group dialogue exploring the role of whiteness in social work
About this Event

Unlike a traditional workshop, this small-group event is designed as a facilitated conversation rather than a lecture. Meaningful dialogue requires trust, reflection, and participation. Attendance will be intentionally limited to support a rich and engaging discussion for all participants.Within the conversation, we will have our very own Executive Director, Karessa Proctor, BSW, MSW, to provide research, data, and professional perspectives that complement the discussion, connecting participants' reflections to current scholarship and emerging conversations within the profession. This event is ideal for taking the first step to understanding how Whiteness impacts the work we do as social workers and shapes our interactions with systems without placing the responsibility on our social workers of color. The goal is to foster anti-oppressive practices in our members through self-reflection and education on how our identities may be harmful to individuals, clients, and communities.Participants will be invited to listen deeply, reflect thoughtfully, and engage respectfully in a supportive learning environment. There is no expectation that participants arrive with the “right” answers, only a willingness to be present, curious, and open to learning. This gathering is intended to create a space where participants can practice engaging across differences with curiosity, respect, and professional integrity.

Agenda

1. Welcome (11am - 11:10am)
2. Video + Discussion (11:10am - 11:30am)
3. Opening Statement Discussion (11:30am - 11:45am)
4. Guest Speaker (11:45am - 12:00pm)
5. Discussion Question (12:00pm - 12:20pm)
6. Action Steps and Group Debrief (12:20pm - 12:30pm)