Interacting with the NASW Code of Ethics is always a refreshing and indicting experience. One of its codes that I happened to memorize in High School, although under unrelated circumstances, was working with diverse populations and clients espousing divergent values and beliefs. This standard essentially says that social work is about appreciating humanity in its diversity and finding solutions with and for such a colorful mix of backgrounds.
I am an ardent believer that society’s most chronic social afflictions are embedded in the tendency to go against the grain of nature, which is decorated with diversity. A solution for multifaceted problems affecting people differently cannot be engraved in the rock, but this is easier to regurgitate than practice.
The NASW Code of Ethics undergirding diversity often brings me to the realization of the double standards that have arrested social development. By our Constitution’s standards, racism, the epitome of intolerance towards beliefs and values that conflict with one’s own, is unacceptable.
However, it remains systemized in contemporary society, and the topic is typically charged with traumatizing experiences. Under these circumstances, I believe it no longer matters that the NASW code of ethics reminds one to be prepared to function in culturally diverse settings. I choose social work because I believe that society should work for all of us.
Although greatly underestimated and earnestly fought by forces that superimpose dominant ideologies and narratives in many situations, unity is vital for solving problems. I love paying attention to other people’s perspectives because our alienating circumstances – political, economic, or religious beliefs – somehow exploit those differences to perpetuate social barriers.
People change over time, along with their belief systems. Today, I may take pride in my conviction that social functionality is gauged by one’s ability to embrace diversity, but I may hold a different position tomorrow, depending on the circumstances. To reconcile any clash between personal beliefs and professional requirements, I will assess the client’s individual needs and, where I am in doubt, consult my supervisors.