Dear Member,

The Michigan Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers and many of Michigan's 24,000 social workers have grave concerns over the recent events in Ferguson and Staten Island and the lack of justice in other similar situations nationwide. These injustices were brought to light through the recent decisions of the grand jurys to not indict officers involved in the deaths of Michael Brown and Eric Garner.

These decisions are a reflection of the often biased and inequitable treatment of people of color. This is evidenced, in part, by the disproportionate number of incarcerated African Americans, Latino Americans, and other disenfranchized groups as well as the number of deaths through law enforcement encounters.

Eric Garner’s last words, “I Can’t Breathe,” have become a metaphor for a broken system and the injustices suffered by many. It is the hope of NASW - Michigan that the more than 170 protests nationwide raise awareness of the need to create and implement policies that serve to end racial inequality. Social workers should play an integral role in their communities by starting critical discussions and diologues between law enforcement, civil rights leaders, policy makers, and community members.

It is imperative that social workers examine the multifaceted nature of racism in the United States. First, by reflecting on the role we play as individuals and how we can make a positive difference through micro, mezzo, and macro advocacy. We must also examine and act against structural racism, privilege, and the systemic marginalization of people of color.

NASW - Michigan is asking you to join with us in calling on policy makers at the local, state, and federal levels to make reforms to address these concerns. As your professional organization, we stand ready to assist in an way we can.

Thank you for your advocacy,

Maxine Thome, PhD, LMSW, MPH

Executive Director, NASW - Michigan

Dear Policy Maker,

The Michigan Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers and many of Michigan's 24,000 social workers have grave concerns over the recent events in Ferguson and Staten Island and the lack of justice in other similar situations nationwide. These injustices were brought to light through the recent decisions of the grand jurys to not indict officers involved in the deaths of Michael Brown and Eric Garner.

We truly appreciate the difficult role law enforcement plays in protecting communities and also grieve when their lives are lost. At the same time, we are troubled by the many recent cases of police overreach.

As social workers we encourage local, state, and federal government to move forward with the following reforms:

Develop and implement standards on the use of lethal force

Develop and implement standards on how police handle persons living with mental illness or disabilities

Training to help end inherent bias and racial profiling when dealing with people of color

Assurance that the grand jury process includes objective prosecuters

NASW - Michigan and members are willing to provide assistance in any way we can with the development and implementation of these recommendations.

Sincerely,

The Undersigned Supporters: