NASW NJ reflects on President Biden’s Decision to Step Down and Support Vice President Kamala Harris.

As members of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) in New Jersey, we are deeply invested in the political landscape and its implications for social justice, human rights, and the well-being of the communities we serve. The national leadership of NASW initially endorsed the Biden-Harris ticket for the 2024 presidential election, recognizing their commitment to advancing the core issues that affect social workers and their clients.

However, President Joe Biden’s recent decision to step down from the race and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris necessitates a renewed focus on garnering support for her candidacy.President Biden's tenure has been marked by significant strides in addressing critical areas such as healthcare access, mental health services, and racial equity. His administration’s efforts align closely with the values and mission of the NASW, and we commend President Biden for his dedication to these issues.

Nevertheless, the decision to support Vice President Harris brings a new dynamic to the 2024 election that demands our active engagement and advocacy.

The Implications for Social Workers: Vice President Harris’s candidacy presents both opportunities and challenges for social workers. Her support for comprehensive criminal justice reform, efforts to end mass incarceration, and improve reentry programs resonate deeply with our professional goals. Her understanding of systemic issues that disproportionately affect marginalized communities aligns with our ongoing fight for equity and social justice.

However, some within the social work community have raised concerns about her tenure as a prosecutor, which included policies that may have contributed to the criminalization of vulnerable populations. It is essential for us to engage in a nuanced discussion about her record, recognizing both her achievements and areas where we seek further progress.

A Call to Action: With President Biden stepping down, the NASW NJ chapter must focus on building robust support for Vice President Harris. Our goals include:

Continuing Advocacy for Justice Reform: We will work to ensure that Vice President Harris’s platform addresses the complexities of criminal justice reform, emphasizing rehabilitation and community-based alternatives to incarceration.

Promoting Mental Health and Healthcare Access: We will advocate for policies that expand mental health services and integrate them into primary healthcare, reflecting the holistic approach central to social work.

Advancing Racial Equity: We will support initiatives that dismantle systemic racism and promote equity in all aspects of society, from education and employment to healthcare and housing.

Engaging Our Members: We call on our members to participate actively in the political process. This includes attending town halls, engaging with local representatives, and ensuring that our voices are heard on issues that impact our profession and those we serve.

Conclusion: President Biden’s decision to support Vice President Harris marks a significant moment in our nation’s political narrative. As social workers, we are uniquely positioned to influence this transition positively. By staying informed, engaged, and committed to our core values, we can help shape a future that prioritizes social justice, human dignity, and the well-being of all communities.

NASW NJ chapter stands ready to work with Vice President Harris and her campaign to ensure that our professional insights and experiences inform the policies and programs of the next administration. Together, we can continue to build a society that reflects the best of our shared values and aspirations.