Journal Entry Advocacy Internationally Throughout The World
Journal Entry Advocacy Internationallythroughout The World Members
Journal Entry: Advocacy, Internationally Throughout the world, members of the LGBTQ community continue to struggle for their rights. In some countries, they have made some progress. In 2016, 20 countries legally recognized marriage for same-sex couples (Human Rights Campaign, 2016). However, in other countries, the LGBTQ community faces much greater obstacles, and the consequences of fighting for basic rights are grave for both LGBTQ individuals and allies. Being gay is a crime punishable by death in 10 countries and is illegal in a total of 73 countries (Human Rights Campaign, 2016).
Because of the violence and social exclusion experienced globally, LGBTQ individuals may seek refugee status because of their sexual orientation or gender identity/expression (UN High Commissioner for Refugees [UNHCR], 2016).
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The international landscape of LGBTQ rights presents a stark contrast between progress in some nations and severe persecution in others. The United Nations Address on Global LGBT Rights by Hillary Clinton highlights the ongoing struggle for equality and the importance of global advocacy. Reflecting on this speech reveals the critical need for social workers, especially those practicing in North America, to recognize and address sexual orientation and gender diversity among marginalized populations worldwide.
Advocacy for LGBTQ rights globally is essential because human rights are inherently universal. Despite international agreements and declarations promoting equality, many countries continue to criminalize same-sex relationships, impose capital punishment, or criminalize gender expression. For example, as mentioned, being gay is punishable by death in ten countries, and a total of 73 countries criminalize LGBTQ identities in some form (Human Rights Campaign, 2016). These laws perpetuate social exclusion, violence, and denial of basic rights, prompting many LGBTQ individuals to seek refuge elsewhere, often risking their lives.
In the context of practicing social work in North America, it is crucial to acknowledge these disparities and understand the global dimensions of marginalization. Social workers have an ethical obligation to promote social justice and advocate for marginalized groups, including LGBT individuals worldwide. This entails recognizing that sexual orientation and gender identity are fundamental aspects of human identity that should be protected and respected. North American social workers, therefore, must broaden their perspective to include international human rights issues, understanding that the struggle for LGBTQ equality transcends borders.
The role of social workers on an international level involves advocating for policies that protect LGBTQ individuals, partnering with global organizations, and supporting asylum seekers fleeing persecution based on their identities. For instance, social workers can collaborate with organizations such as UNHCR to assist refugees by providing psychosocial support, legal advocacy, and resources to ensure their safety and well-being. Additionally, social workers must be culturally competent, sensitive to diverse cultural norms and beliefs, and equipped with the skills to challenge discrimination and stigma both locally and globally.
Specific skills of an international advocate include cultural humility, trauma-informed care, legal literacy around refugees and asylum laws, and effective communication strategies. Actions could involve raising awareness through campaigns, lobbying policymakers to enforce anti-discrimination laws, and providing education to communities about LGBTQ issues. Moreover, social workers must advocate for policies that decriminalize LGBTQ identities and promote inclusive practices globally.
In conclusion, acknowledging and addressing sexual orientation and gender diversity worldwide is integral to social work practice. International advocacy efforts not only uphold human rights but also foster global solidarity in the fight against discrimination. By employing culturally competent advocacy skills and collaborating with international organizations, social workers can make meaningful contributions toward ensuring safety, dignity, and equality for LGBTQ populations worldwide.
References
Human Rights Campaign. (2016). International. Retrieved from https://www.hrc.org
UN High Commissioner for Refugees. (2015). Protecting persons with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities: A global report on UNHCR's efforts to protect Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Intersex asylum-seekers and refugees. Retrieved from https://www.unhcr.org
United Nations. (2011). Address on Global LGBT Rights by Hillary Clinton. Retrieved from https://2009-2017.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2011/10/175157.htm
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