NYS Statement on 2025 Election Results

NASWNYS

Election Statement
Shakira A. Kennedy, PhD, LMSW
Executive Director- NASW-NYS/NYC

After any election season, especially one as contested as this, it’s natural to feel a range of emotions. For many, there may be relief and hope, for others, anger, disappointment or frustration. Yet today, the day after the results, we’re reminded of something deeper and far more powerful than any single election outcome: our shared commitment to the social work profession, our clients and our communities. These shared values are the foundation on which we can build a path toward healing.

Healing doesn’t mean that we abandon our beliefs or forget what we stand for. Healing means listening—even when we disagree. Healing is not a passive act; it requires us to actively challenge unjust policies, build bridges, to reach out, and to keep working for what we believe in, side by side with those who may see things differently.

So, where do we go from here? We move forward by embracing the idea that each of us has a role in shaping the future, regardless of the outcomes we supported. Let’s take the time to process, to breathe, and to re-center. In many ways, our work, is just beginning.

We hope these resources help you to build a support network, prioritize self- care, and practice empathy in these unpredictable environments. *Some resources used from NASW-MA Toolkit.

*Practicing self-care and building community, for yourself and your clients.

Working with marginalized populations to cope with an uncertain future.

Depending on the results of the election, marginalized populations, such as BIPOC communities, the LGBTQIA+ community, immigrants, and others, may be dealing with a very uncertain future. These population-specific resources are meant to help members of these communities to feel less alone in grappling with any feelings they may have.

Understanding the relationship between mental health and reproductive rights, and tools for coping.

 

Ideas for delving into other forms of political action and advocacy.

  • Become active in local You can learn more about New York City government structures here. New York State here. Get to know the governmental structure in the city or town you live in so you can advocate for what you care about in your own community!
  • Consider running for a school board seat in your community. School boards make important decisions about public schools and policies that ultimately will impact a community for generations to New York State: See here. New York City: See here
  • Join or start a community-based advocacy organization. Build community with people who care about the same issues that you do. This can help you to form a support network as well as accumulate more voices to advocate for those causes.
  • Write an op-ed about the issue(s) you care about. This can be a very effective way to influence policy decisions, and to utilize your voice as a social You can find a helpful guide here about writing an op-ed as a social worker.

 

Shakira A. Kennedy, PhD, LMSW
Executive Director- NASW-NYS/NYC

Amelia Lochner Malavé
Author: Amelia Lochner Malavé

NASW-NYS