The social work community must put the political debate aside and confront the moral and ethical questions that illegal immigration imposes on the profession.
The Situation
“It is not our job or responsibility to determine how to control our borders,” one experienced social worker said. “The fact is that millions of immigrants have gotten into our country without legal status and have brought little children with them. They may not be U.S. citizens and are not entitled to citizen’s benefits, but they are human beings and are entitled to humane treatment and that is where social work comes in. Social workers have sworn to protect and support the vulnerable and at the same time uphold and defend the laws of the United States. It’s easy to see how well-meaning social workers might struggle with the moral and ethical dilemma presented by illegal immigrants.”