0709 - Engaging in Activism in Social Work
Course Description
Hours: 18
Social workers are ethically obligated to pursue social, economic and environmental justice, and fight against discrimination and oppression. Given the increasing depth and breadth of local and global crises, swift action must be taken to mitigate these harms. One way social workers can achieve this is through activism; however, many social workers report they do not feel equipped to engage in activism in a meaningful way.
This three-day course will demystify activism by providing participants with theoretical knowledge and practical skills for implementing activist strategies and tactics to bring about change. Participants will be introduced to theories and approaches at the micro, mezzo and macro-levels, including everyday activism, artivism, mutual aid, community organizing and direct action. The course also includes a practical component whereby small groups will be formed to create an activist strategy to address a specific social issue. Groups will develop all aspects of their activist project (e.g., advocacy letters, petitions, posters, etc.) but are not required to implement their activism as part of the course. Rather, groups will present their project on the final day.
- Day 1 – Gain an understanding of the various theories and components of activism and form groups.
- Day 2 – Working session for groups to develop their activist projects and consult with the facilitator. Attendance is mandatory.
- Day 3 – Group presentations and collective feedback.
The course is highly experiential and participants are expected to come prepared to actively engage and contribute.
This introductory course is designed for those who are new(ish) to activism and will not be meaningful for experienced activists/organizers. It will be facilitated by a professor of social work who has experience engaging in and teaching activism.
* This course will be part of the Community Development and Advocacy certificate that is planned for January 2027.
Notes
Time Zone: All listed class times are held in ET (Ontario, Canada)
For more information contact the Faculty of Social Work Professional Development office:
Email: fswprofessionaldevelopment@wlu.ca
Phone: 548-889-4967
Cancellations and Transfers
Be sure to carefully review our cancellation and transfer information before registering.
Website: wlu.ca/fswpd