Thread by @ScottHech

Critical read: For those suggesting an answer to police violence is social workers working hand-in-hand w/ them to respond to crises: "The same system responsible for our clients’ trauma, humiliation, & suffering should not take a role in their redemption."slate.com/news-and-polit…

The author, Lori James-Townes, was former head social worker for the Maryland public defense system. "Social workers cant build trust w/ people if we respond to a crisis accompanied by police. Police come armed w/ Tasers, guns, & batons, prepared to deploy violence & punishment."

The need for social workers to respond w/o police is based in trauma. "Many of those I serve are survivors of violence—often inflicted by police. When they call for help during a crisis, police regularly escalate rather than diffuse conflict. They traumatize the people we serve."

The need for social workers to respond w/o police is based in history: "Police were created to maintain & perpetuate many of our deepest social problems, from slavery to racial segregation. Attempting to do social work while police hover nearby would be emotionally violent."

Fire and truth: "The need to separate social working from policing, is not just a practical, outcome-oriented matter. It is a moral imperative. Social workers must not be complicit in a system of violence founded on racial oppression."

But more than social workers are needed. Must be "paired w/ profound investment in public health, housing, education, jobs, poverty alleviation, & a mental health system that does not simply replicate the existing system of oppression."

In short, read this commentary. Share this commentary. slate.com/news-and-polit…