Abstract
In this historical case study, we use the realism–idealism framework to analyze how three National Conference of Social Work (NCSW) leaders differed in their social justice advocacy to address racial segregation during the 1930s. We argue that advocacy should welcome approaches along the realism–idealism spectrum. Navigating internal difference and diverse viewpoints enables organizations to be more effective in their social justice advocacy. Managing internal disagreement enables organizations to be more effective externally. Allowing space for negotiation and voices of dissent is necessary to effectively address persistent, contemporary social justice issues like racial discrimination and exclusion.
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Notes
Fisher’s voice is most dominant in this case study based upon available content. Some of Fisher’s writing contains second-hand information, such as his documentation of what NSCW leaders told him about their meetings and decisions. Though we do hear from Abbott directly, her response is in the context of her conversations with Fisher. Jones’ voice is missing from Fisher’s correspondence concerning NCSW conference planning. However, it is reasonable to assume that Jones was well aware of Fisher’s advocacy, since Jones’ protégé, Arnold Hill, the NCSW 2nd Vice-President and executive of NUL, was listed on Fisher’s letters among the attendees at the NSCW planning meetings.
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Acknowledgements
The authors wish to acknowledge the support of Felix Armfield, whose extensive research on Jones and the NUL was critical in our initial discovery, then understanding of the discussions concerning racial discrimination issues at the NCSW annual meetings. His personal correspondences with the first author were particularly helpful during the initial data collection. The support of Linnea Anderson, Archivist at the University of Minnesota Libraries Social Welfare History Archives, was essential in obtaining the Jacob Fisher papers. Her cooperation was critical to accessing primary data that included Fisher’s personal notes, his updates from the NCC, and his direct correspondences with Abbott and other NCSW leaders. Last, we wish to acknowledge the generous support of Professor Karen Staller over the development of the case study.
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Senteio, C., Matteucci, K. Addressing Racial Discrimination in the 1930s: Using a Historical Case Study to Inform Contemporary Social Justice Efforts. J Afr Am St 21, 621–642 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12111-017-9387-z
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12111-017-9387-z