How should social workers address issues of discrimination and exploitation?

Social workers have an ethical obligation to confront discrimination and exploitation actively. This responsibility aligns with the core principles of social justice and the commitment to ensuring that all individuals have equal rights and opportunities. By choosing to act to prevent and eliminate discriminatory practices, social workers advocate for marginalized and vulnerable populations, striving to create a more equitable society. This approach supports the profession's commitment to upholding human rights and reducing barriers to access and equity.

In contrast, ignoring issues that do not directly affect oneself undermines the fundamental values of social work, which include empathy, advocacy, and social reform. Exclusively advocating for privileged groups ignores the profession's commitment to social equity and neglects the needs of those most affected by injustice. Maintaining silence on controversial topics fails to address the systemic issues surrounding discrimination and exploitation, allowing these practices to persist unchallenged. Therefore, actively working to combat discrimination is a vital part of a social worker's role in promoting social change and justice.