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Paper Presentation

LGBTQIA+ and Two-Spirit

Session: Advancing Social Work Education: Preparing MSW Students for Inclusive and Purpose-Driven Practice

Preparing Social Workers for Affirmative Practice with LGBTQIA+ Populations: Recommendations for MSW Programs

This presentation explores how well MSW programs prepare students to work with LGBTQIA+ populations and how MSW programs can better prepare graduates for LGBTQIA+ and gender-affirming practice with LGBTQIA+ populations. Drawing on findings from a national survey, we discuss key findings, offering concrete recommendations for improving social work education/practice.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this session, attendees should be able to:
  1. Analyze innovative pedagogical methods that amplify LGBTQIA+ representation in MSW curricula while addressing intersecting identities and issues of disability justice, to better prepare students for practice with diverse LGBTQIA+ populations.
  2. Implement practical strategies to equip students with skills to navigate anti-LGBTQIA+ policies, apply trauma-informed gender-affirming care, and enhance practice effectiveness with LGBTQIA+ populations.
  3. Develop concrete action plans for advocating institutional policies that center LGBTQIA+ inclusion, promote disability justice, and improve preparedness to respond effectively to anti-LGBTQIA+ laws in the current hostile sociopolitical climate.