WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) expresses its heartfelt gratitude to President Joe Biden for his dedicated service to our nation.
As he said in his historic address to the nation Wednesday night, “I revere this office, but I love my country more.”
His unwavering commitment to the American people and his steadfast leadership have been a beacon of hope and progress during these challenging times.
“America is at an inflection point, when the decisions we make now will determine the fate of our nation,” Biden said from behind the resolute desk in the Oval Office Wednesday. “The defense of democracy is more important than any title,” he said. “Nothing, nothing can come in the way of saving our democracy. That includes personal ambition. So, I decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation.”
President Biden’s efforts to promote unity, justice, and equity have not gone unnoticed, and his dedication to addressing the needs of all Americans, particularly the most vulnerable, is deeply appreciated. Under his guidance, our country has made significant strides in mental health, health care, economic recovery, and social justice.
President Biden has allocated significant funding to improve mental health and substance use treatment, recognizing the crucial role that social workers play in these areas. This includes funding through the American Rescue Plan and other legislative measures aimed at expanding access to mental health services. President Biden has allocated additional funds for training programs and grants to support the education of social workers, particularly in areas with shortages. This initiative aims to ensure that more qualified social workers enter the field to meet the increasing demand. President Biden through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), invested $2.5 million in creating a multi-state social worker licensure compact. This initiative marks the first-ever Licensure Portability Grant Program investment in a multi-state social worker licensure compact. President Biden has demonstrated support for the social work profession through both words and actions. His significant investment in mental health and efforts to address workforce shortages will have a lasting impact on future generations.
President Biden approved $167 billion in student debt cancellation for almost 4.75 million borrowers in addition to strengthening the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program through more than two dozen executive actions.
President Biden has authored and championed significant legislation, such as the Violence Against Women Act. He has shown a lifelong commitment to diversity and inclusion. He served as Vice President to the first Black President. President Biden has achieved a lot in his time in office. He nominated the first Black Vice President of a major party, as well as the first Black woman to the Supreme Court, which he mentioned in his speech. He also pointed out that his cabinet is the most diverse in American history. As President, he also passed the largest infrastructure bill in American history. Since taking office, America has become safer, stronger, and more respected.
President Biden has served the nation as a dedicated elected leader and statesman for more than five decades.
Thank you, Mr. President, for your tireless work and enduring commitment to making our nation a better place for all. Your service has had a profound impact on social workers and the mental health of our nation, and for that, NASW is sincerely grateful.
The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), in Washington, DC, is the largest membership organization of professional social workers. It promotes, develops, and protects the practice of social work and social workers. NASW also seeks to enhance the well-being of individuals, families, and communities through its advocacy.