We live in a challenging period of time for both the nation and for the State of Texas. Resources have become scarce, and during such times it becomes essential to effectively balance growth, contraction, and preservation of social programs. But difficult times are not an excuse for the state to abandon its people, nor are they an excuse to deny the fundamental human rights of adequate education, good health, and public safety. In these times it is the responsibility of those who work in the social services to be the voices and advocates for the growing masses of the disempowered across the state.
The 82nd Texas Legislature has already proven to be one of the most difficult and contentious sessions in decades. The Republican majority is one of the largest in years compromising two thirds of the State House of Representatives as well as controlling the Senate and the governorship. It has taken the dramatic budget shortfall, which is expected to be between 15 and 25 billion dollars, as an excuse to decimate numerous state programs. The majority is using the recession as an answer to its philosophy of small government by claiming that this mess is caused by too much spending despite the fact that this budget shortfall is actually the consequence of irresponsibly lowering taxes for the sake of politics. Is our fiscal situation really the consequence of too much spending or is it rather too little revenue? By cutting state spending and by closing or dramatically minimizing state offices we will be undercutting the fragile economy of the state and further putting people out of work. If this is the case then social service agencies will prove to be one of the hardest hit, and consequently thousands of people will be harmed. Now is a time for the voices of Social Work, from policy maker to practitioner, to stand up for the people of Texas.
Other than the budget shortfall there are many proposals moving at the capital which will be affecting the social work profession. Representative Elliot Naishtat of district 49, who holds a Masters of Social Work from the University of Texas, is the only social worker on the hill and is an ardent advocate for the profession. Some of his contributions in this 82nd session include HB 1779 relating to an exemption from private security regulation for social workers (pending) and HB 1797 relating to the licensing and practice of social work (referred to Human Services Committee). Now is a time for self preservation, and though programming will likely be cut these budget neutral proposals might be some of the best steps which could be taken this year to improve the profession. All signs point to cuts in programming being inevitable, though the size and scope of these cuts are still unknown. Whatever the case this industry-wide challenge is an opportunity to strengthen the advocacy arm of the social work profession. These dire times will not last forever, and in times of distress there is good reason to organize.
On Thursday March 3, 2011 hundreds of social workers from across the state converged upon the capital for Social Work Advocacy Day organized by the Texas chapter of the National Association of Social Workers. They were there in mass, wearing teal as a sign of professional unity, energized and invigorated at the chance to tell their stories and promote the profession. Throughout the day hundreds of advocates including students, teachers, and practitioners of every age went from office to office across the capital speaking with aids and lawmakers about the Texas NASW legislative agenda. One of the day’s highlights took place in the middle of the morning when advocates gathered in the Texas House Chamber to hear Representative Naishtat read HR 177 which recognizes March 2011 as Professional Social Work Month. Sometimes acknowledgement is the most important morale booster, and this moment in the chamber was a powerful statement to all those who were present that the hard work and countless hours done by social workers is appreciated on some levels by the state.
In the coming months social workers along with all advocates for human rights in the state must speak out. Will their voices be enough to stop the upcoming assault? Will their critical message of social justice for the people be received and acted upon? No, probably not. This year will likely be a step backwards for social services and human rights in Texas. But it is not an end to the fight! This setback is an excuse for unity and for a growth and strengthening of the advocacy within social work. This voice has a critical role to play in the future, and the fortunate thing about politics is that nothing is ever set in stone. As this probable budget is implemented there will be a backlash and that moment will be an opportunity for those with a true concern for improving the lives of everyday Texans to help steer the state back towards a promising future.
More information on pending legislation can be found at:
Texas Legislature Online. (2011). www.house.state.tx.us
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