Dismantling White Supremacy in Social Work Education: A Scoping Review of Interventions in Schools of Social Work

Anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion (ADEI) efforts are hallmarks of CSWE accreditation and are central to the profession, yet little is known about organizational interventions to advance ADEI and dismantle White supremacy in schools of social work. This scoping review identified 8 studies of organizational-level interventions that sought to dismantle White supremacy in schools of social work. We analyzed these studies across six areas: study methodologies, authors’ positionalities, theoretical frameworks, interventions, and author-identified challenges and successes. Findings suggest that schools of social work can challenge White supremacy through organizational interventions, such as: strategic planning, education and training on the characteristics and manifestations of White supremacy, curriculum overhaul to focus on critical theories and approaches, creation of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)-centered initiatives to support individuals experiencing racial harm due to White supremacy, and accountability mechanisms to counteract White normativity. Based on the findings, five concrete recommendations are offered for schools of social work: (1) validate BIPOC experiences of harm, (2) collaborate to create a culture of accountability, (3) center BIPOC voices, (4) educate on White supremacy, and (5) embrace discomfort and conflict.