Non-White Social Workers and Social Work Practice

Canada is known for cultural diversity and multiculturalism. Winnipeg, Manitoba is a city centre where there is a growing population of racialized people. Only 5% of all social workers in Winnipeg are from racialized backgrounds. The literature review indicates racialized social workers feel they are perceived differently than their dominantly located counterparts. The very nature of being 'visible' minorities means that racialized workers are immediately seen as non-White, and thus different from the norm. The interviews for this qualitative research project were conducted in March 2011. The participants in this study reported that they felt that the colour of their skin was often more of a factor in being perceived as competent, than their actual professional skills, training and abilities as social workers. This study brings to light the fact that social work education and workplaces must acknowledge that racialized workers have unique experiences, expectations, and face different issues than their dominantly located counterparts. As such, they have different interpretations, personal frameworks of practice, and needs to obtain the same level of success as professionals.

Autorentext

Florence See-Toh obtained her Masters of Social Work in 2012 from the University of Manitoba. She is a registered social worker in Canada with a professional background in community development, youth justice, child welfare, congenital and acquired disabilities/special needs, rehabilitation, post acute neurological surgery, and pediatric medicine.