Episode 30 Decolonizing Social Work | A Dialogue with Drs. Donna Baines and Bindi Bennett

The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast

We recently journeyed into a deep dialogue on the critical topic of decolonizing social work with Drs. Donna Baines and Bindi Bennett in Episode 30, recorded live on Wednesday, October 25th, 2023. Hosted by Christian Ace Stettler, professor of social work at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, the episode unfolded into a blend of insightful reflections and challenging discussions. Episode Insights: Animosity and Dialogue: The first half of our dialogue witnessed a bit of animosity which, upon reflection, could have been avoided with more open, curious dialogue and fewer assumptions. The episode, however, transcended this initial discord, evolving into a more constructive and enlightening discussion. Essence of Decolonizing Social Work: The episode delved into the core essence of decolonizing social work, exploring its paramount significance in contemporary social work practice. The conversation illuminated the pivotal role of decolonization in fostering a more justice-oriented and inclusive social work sphere. Indigenous Frameworks in Social Work Education: A robust discussion emerged around the integration of Indigenous frameworks in social work education, shedding light on the implications for social justice. The dialogue offered a glimpse into the transformative potential of such integration. Collaborative and Individual Endeavors: Both Drs. Baines and Bennett shared about their collaborative and individual works dedicated to advancing social justice and decolonization in social work. Their narratives provided a rich tapestry of experiences and insights that contribute to the ongoing efforts in decolonizing social work education and practice. Challenges and Opportunities: The conversation also navigated the challenges and opportunities inherent in adopting decolonized approaches in social work education and practice, providing a nuanced understanding of the path towards a decolonized social work paradigm. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Drs. Donna Baines and Bindi Bennett for their invaluable contributions to this dialogue. Their insights have undeniably enriched our understanding and spurred deeper contemplations on the journey towards decolonizing social work.