SU Social Work Students Present at NASW-MD Conference

SALISBURY, MD---Salisbury University Master of Social Work students Michael Odeyemi and Danesha Owens-Harrell, and Professor Jim Forte, recently presented at National Association of Social Work-Maryland (NASW-MD) Chapter’s 2018 Social Work Month Annual Conference.

More than 30 social workers from across the state attended their workshop, “Why (Some) Black Lives Don’t Matter and What to Do: Interactionist and Intersectional Perspectives.” They offered a theoretical explanation of police profiling and biased violence against blacks and, with participants, identified possible theory-guided, evidence-informed strategies for changing such patterns.

“I am thankful to have had the experience of speaking on a topic that is so close to my heart,” said Owens-Harrell of Suitland, MD. “I hope that others will begin to join the conversation so that we find solutions to end these injustices."

"I really enjoyed being a panel member at the NASW-MD workshop,” added Odeyemi of Waldorf, MD. “The topics about Black Lives, racism, and the police shootings of black males were very interesting. This was my first time speaking at such an event.”

The SU students provided case profiles of “Black Lives that Didn’t Matter” and reported on their own experiences as targets of prejudice and discrimination. Forte said their trio appreciated the thoughtful involvement and support of workshop participants as they shared experiences, theorized together, and strategized about solutions.

For more information call 410-543-6030 or visit the SU website at www.salisbury.edu.