Equity Case Studies Report - School of Social Work - University of ...

UBC school of social work equity and diversity strategic plan: A compilation of case studies 37
attitude from some students that students from priority groups got admitted due to belonging to
one of these groups, without fully acknowledging or understanding the structural barriers they
face. This contributes to the creation of stigma and a climate that does not feel safe or inclusive
for all students.
Another challenge is implementation, as despite the existence of policies, translating
them and putting them into practice can be a struggle.
Future Directions
The next steps for the Educational Equity Initiative involve helping students who have
had experiences of facing structural barriers to have more of a voice, and teaching privileged
students how to be allies. Additionally, the Faculty of Social Work is still in the process of
making changes to the BSW program and is currently doing a program review. The Faculty of
Social Work recently had a consultation with the students and faculty members about the BSW
program where papers were presented, and the Indigenous Caucus and the Educational Equity
Committee both shared their visions and goals for improving the BSW program. A
subcommittee has been formed to propose specific changes. Furthermore, there is a focus on
changing program values, by trying to include more intersectionality, structural, and antioppressive
practice principles in the overarching goals of the program.
The Faculty of Social Work also has a PhD program. There are some students who have
been very vocal about making changes, in terms of advocating for changes in the curriculum.
There have been some struggles; for example, the research course does not reflect Aboriginal
worldviews. These students and the Educational Equity Committee are trying to speak out and
work with the PhD Curriculum Committee so that there will be some consideration in