CASW - National Social Work Month 2014 Proclamation

For Immediate Release
March 3, 2014

Social Workers Promoting Equity for a Stronger Canada

For National Social Work Month 2014 (March), the Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) federation chose the theme Social Workers Promoting Equity for a Stronger Canada to reflect the professions growing concern at the rising social, economic and health inequities in Canada.

“In celebrating our profession, we celebrate the achievements of the women and men, both past and present, who have spent their lifetimes fighting to move Canada progressively forward towards a more inclusive society” states CASW President, Morel Caissie.

At present, a deep concern for the profession is how the lessons and evidence of history on the benefits of broadening public investments are seemingly ignored or dismissed on the national level as debate focuses solely on decreasing programs and services to balance lost revenue from targeted consumer tax credits, reductions to the GST as well as to personal and corporate income tax.

“Accountable investments in health, social and economic equity in Canada have been driving forces in building a united and secure Canada, however growing inequities are already being felt on the front line of service delivery” states Caissie. “And if left unaddressed, will threaten to pull the threads of unity that bind us together as Canadians.”

In today’s political environment, the challenge to addressing growing inequities in Canada is to move forward a national dialogue on taxation that begins with the recognition that our strongest security against crime and the exploitation of others is investing in each other.

“If the goal is for Canada is to evolve into a more equitable country, the dialogue on taxation cannot be disconnected from investments in family and community” states Caissie. “The challenge then becomes to acknowledge, support and reward political debate that challenges Canadians to address tax fairness.”

For more information contact:
Fred Phelps, MSW, RSW
Executive Director, CASW
613.729.6668
E-mail: fred.phelps@casw-acts.ca