Competency 5: Engage in Policy Practice

In the Fall semester of 2024, I wrote four papers, each exploring different aspects of gun violence in America. I looked at the social issue from a holistic perspective. I focused on understanding the impact of gun violence on various communities, while also examining the policies enacted at all levels of government, both historically and in the present. I also identified prejudice and discrimination that these policies might perpetuate and explored ways to improve future legislation to create better outcomes for everyone.

This work ties into Competency 5 by highlighting the crucial role that social workers play in understanding and evaluating the policies that affect the people we work with. The papers reinforced the importance of being proactive, advocating for changes in policies that promote fairness and justice for all. Through critical thinking and policy analysis, social workers can be powerful agents for positive change in the communities we serve.