In advocating for social justice, social workers are expected to:

In the context of social work and the NASW Code of Ethics, advocating for social justice fundamentally involves supporting the rights and well-being of all individuals, with particular attention directed toward those who are marginalized or vulnerable in society. This focus is essential because social workers are tasked with addressing inequalities and injustices that disproportionately affect certain groups, such as people of color, low-income individuals, and others who face systemic barriers.

When social workers advocate for the rights of marginalized populations, they align their practices with the fundamental values of the profession, which prioritize service to others and social change. This advocacy goes beyond mere acknowledgment; it involves actively challenging discriminatory practices and policies that perpetuate inequality. By prioritizing the rights of those who have historically been oppressed or overlooked, social workers contribute to creating a more just society.

The other options do not align with the ethical obligations of social workers. Acting independently without regard for social context fails to recognize the complexities of social issues and the interconnectedness of community dynamics. Promoting initiatives that only benefit oneself undermines the core values of service and social responsibility, while emphasizing economic outcomes over social equity contrasts with the commitment to prioritize human rights and social justice as foundational elements of social work practice.