Whereas racial tensions in our country are heightening, and

Whereas many in Congress are turning away from the needs of millions of Americans and are abandoning years of effort to reverse the crippling legacy of past discrimination, and

Whereas today, a reactionary firestorm threatens to engulf programs that ease human need, that ensure a more open and egalitarian society, and that narrow the gap between the very rich and the very poor, and

Whereas this assault has been rapid and well-orchestrated, it has been difficult to mobilize the diverse groups and populations who are being put at even greater risk, and

Whereas this onslaught, pandering to racism and xenophobia, if left unchecked, will discredit and destroy affirmative action, negate the gains achieved by women, children, and people of color, trample the rights of lesbian and gay people, and alienate whole communities by imposing English only laws and restrictive immigration policies, and

Whereas affirmative action, like splitting the atom, releases the creative energy and talents of the richly diverse populations that are the strength of our nation, and

Whereas the profession of social work is committed to equity and justice, and

Whereas the NASW Code of Ethics calls on all social workers to act to prevent and eliminate discrimination, and

Whereas our challenge is to awaken and alert the many who, because they are not immediately impacted, fail to perceive the danger that ultimately will engulf them, too. Now,

Therefore be it resolved that the National Association of Social Workers reaffirms its support for and commitment to the principles and policies of affirmative action, and

Therefore be it resolved that we call on all who share our concern to make their voices heard, and

Therefore be it resolved that we, the nation's social workers, call on the President, the Congress, and the Supreme Court to adhere to the principles of justice and equal opportunity that are the hallmark of affirmative action.

National Association of Social Workers, 750 First Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002