Book banning is a current area of concern for the profession that receives too little attention. According to an article in the NASW SPS Sections newsletter for Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults, this topic is an issue for social workers because it can have a negative impact on people, and it has fundamental connections with social work’s values.
For example, book banning is a means to control or suppress certain ideas, narratives or voices in society, says the article’s author, Christine M. Rine, PhD, MSW, a professor in the Department of Social Work, Sociology, and Human Services at Pennsylvania Western University.
“From a social justice perspective, this effort can contribute to a climate of authoritarianism that limits freedom of thought and expression,” Rine writes.
Social workers advocate for inclusivity and diversity, and book banning can undermine these efforts, Rine says. Book bans intersect with social work principles and concerns related to freedom of expression, diversity and inclusion, education, psychological well-being, and social justice. Social workers play a crucial role in advocating against censorship and promoting access to diverse ideas and perspectives.
NASW Specialty Practice Sections (SPS) help members stay in-the-know in their specific area of practice and offer individual online communities of committed, like-minded peers. Along with trusted communities, SPS members have more than 45 additional CE opportunities through live practice-specific webinars, newsletters, continuing education and other professional development activities.