Our ABSWGLA Founders

There has been an increasing interest by newer members of the NABSW regarding the formation of the NABSW in 1968. Some have been intrigued by the reality that this organization has continued all these years without outside funding. Some have been amazed that the NABSW has remained true to its roots as an African/ African- American/Black organization. The panel includes some of the founders who coalesced in San Francisco in 1968 to form the national organization. These individuals came from all parts of the country; some of them had already formed local black social work organizations. We will examine the climate that led to the formation, the ideology which underpins the organization, and importantly how the past should inform the future direction of NABSW.

This is climate that compelled a group of 5 social workers: (pictured above left to right) Barbara Williams, Horace Austin, Shirley Better, Leonard Mackerel, and Georgia Parks to community action. The first meeting to form ABSWGLA was held at City Central Mental Health Clinic in April 1968. We were stunned by the huge turnouts. We, Black Social Workers, had enough. From this initial meeting, the fledgling Association of Black Social Workers of Greater Los Angeles planned with other black social workers around the country to protest at National Conference on Social Welfare in San Francisco in 1968. Out of that protest, the formation of National Association of Black Social Workers was created.

Mission Statement

As a local chapter of the National Association of Black social workers, we embrace the National Mission Statement.
The National Association of Black Social Workers, Inc. (NABSW) comprised of people of African ancestry, is committed to enhancing the quality of life and empowering people of African ancestry through advocacy, human services delivery, and research.
Our mission is to work to create a world in which people of African ancestry will live free from racial domination, economic exploitation, and cultural oppression. In collaboration with national, international, and other appropriate groups, NABSW will continue to leverage its collective expertise to strategically develop the capacity of people of African ancestry to sustain and flourish.
NABSW’s vision is guided by the Principles of the Nguzo Saba, which are Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith. Our vision is also guided by the Seven Cardinal Virtues of Ma’at, which areRight, Truth, Justice, Order, Reciprocity, Balance, and Harmony.
NABSW is designed to promote the welfare, survival, and liberation of the Black Community; and to advocate for social change at the national, state, and local level. NABSW is comprised of over 100 membership chapters, and over 30 university and college student chapters throughout the continental United States, Canada and the Caribbean. Additionally, affiliate groups are in both West and South Africa. Membership is available to persons of African ancestry who, regardless of profession, share similar concerns regarding health and welfare issues in the Black community.
NABSW hosts national and international annual conferences that are open to its membership and potential members. Convened in cities around the United States, our annual National Conference brings scholars, practitioners, and administrators together with conferees in a variety of social work settings to dialogue on social work issues in our communities. The International Education Conference provides a summer opportunity for travel to Africa and countries throughout the African Diaspora to experience African culture, heritage, and social institutions.
NABSW advocates for the inclusion of people of African ancestry at the decision and policy-making levels and continues to be a change agent in the areas of social work education, practice, and research. Members of NABSW recognize the necessity for people of African ancestry to maintain control of our communities and accountability of self and others of African ancestry. Through its membership, NABSW seeks to link with others of African ancestry throughout the Diaspora.

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NABSW Code of Ethics

As a local chapter of the National Association of Black social workers, we embrace these National Code of Ethics.
In America today, no Black person, except the selfish or irrational, can claim neutrality in the quest for Black liberation nor fail to consider the implications of the events taking place in our society. Given the necessity for committing ourselves to the struggle for freedom, we as Black Americans practicing in the field of social welfare, set forth this statement of ideals and guiding principles.
If a sense of community awareness is a precondition to humanitarian acts, then we as Black social workers must use our knowledge of the Black community, our commitments to its self-determination, and our helping skills for the benefit of Black people as we marshal our expertise to improve the quality of life of Black people. Our activities will be guided by our Black consciousness, our determination to protect the security of the Black community, and to serve as advocates to relieve suffering of Black people by any means necessary.
Therefore, as Black social workers we commit ourselves, collectively, to the interests of our Black brethren and as individuals subscribe to the following statements:
I regard as my primary obligation the welfare of the Black individual, Black family, and Black community and will engage in action for improving social conditions.
I give precedence to this mission over my personal interest.
I adopt the concept of a Black extended family and embrace all Black people as my brothers and sisters, making no distinction between their destiny and my own.
I hold myself responsible for the quality and extent of service I perform and the quality and extent of service performed by the agency or organization in which I am employed, as it relates to the Black community.
I accept the responsibility to protect the Black community against unethical and hypocritical practice by any individual or organizations engaged in social welfare activities.
I stand ready to supplement my paid or professional advocacy with voluntary service in the Black public interest.
I will consciously use my skills, and my whole being as an instrument for social change, with particular attention directed to the establishment of Black social institutions.
History of NABSW

Founded during the 1960s Civil Rights Movement on May 29, 1968, in San Francisco, the National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW) emerged from the National Conference on Social Welfare. A group of Black social workers created NABSW to address social issues affecting the Black community and advocate for racial equity and self-determination.
Before 1968, various African ancestry advocacy groups focused on combating racism and poverty, aiming for Black liberation and improved social work practices. These efforts led to the formation of NABSW, which united diverse human service practitioners to challenge racism and enhance social welfare systems for Black communities.
NABSW's early years saw demands for changes in traditional social welfare systems, emphasizing the expansion of local chapters. The organization’s first national conference in 1968 presented a position statement to the National Conference on Social Welfare and the National Association of Social Workers, influencing changes in committee compositions and efforts to combat racism.
Since 1969, NABSW has hosted annual national conferences addressing social work service delivery, education, and research. Initiatives like the Harambee Closing Ceremony, developed by Dr. Morris F.X. Jeff, Jr., honor African culture and promote unity. NABSW's Office of Student Affairs supports the recruitment and retention of African ancestry students, offering scholarships through the Office of Student Affairs.
Notable publications include The Black Caucus Journal and the National Newsletter, addressing historical developments, practice issues, and social justice concerns. NABSW's 1972 position on transracial adoption championed Black family preservation and influenced agency practices.
NABSW has held International Education Conferences since 1975, establishing chapters in Canada, the Caribbean, Ghana, and South Africa. The organization has participated in efforts to secure reparations, address child welfare and juvenile justice issues, promote health and wellness, and advocate for voter education.

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Meet Our E Board

Diane R. Griggs-

PRESIDENT + HISORIAN
Diane R. Griggs, LCSW, has extensive experience serving vulnerable populations with a focus on holistic, culturally congruent, healing-centered, and social justice perspectives. A long-standing member, she served as Vice-President for eight years and was recently elected Historian. Diane recently worked on the documentary “Treasured Voices Speak.”
James Maddox, MSW

VICE PRESIDENT
James Maddox, MSW, has a background in Broadcast Journalism and social work. He is passionate about advocacy for veterans, older adults, and victims of human trafficking, domestic abuse, and sexual assault. He believes in using scholarly research to inform and influence the profession.
Toni Shaw

TREASURER
Toni Shaw, MSW, focuses on re-entry populations, transition-age youth, and the homeless. She volunteers with Centinela Youth Services and other organizations, aiming to positively impact the community through programming and advocacy.
Kristle Manuel

CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
Kristle Manuel, MSW, specializes in child protective services, foster care, and counseling across various settings. She aims to introduce meditation and yoga trauma therapy to the Black community.
Vivian Hines, ACSW, MSW

PALIAMENTARIAN
Vivian Hines, MSW, ACSW, has a rich history with NABSW and ABSWGLA. She has worked with veterans and families, emphasizing homeless women veterans. Vivian ensures meetings are conducted orderly as per the Constitution and Bylaws.
Elma Forrest Stewart

CABSW STATE REP
Elma Stewart, LCSW, has over 38 years of experience in program development, management, and community organization. Her vision is to grow membership and continue offering impactful community forums and education.
Linda B. Sewerbridges Williams

CABSW STATE REP
Linda Williams, MSW, focuses on geriatric medicine, particularly Alzheimer’s/Dementia patients and their families. She aims to increase membership growth and provide community support.
Tarrisyna Bartley, DSW, LCSW

STEERING COMITTEE REPESENTATIVE
Tarrisyna Bartley, LCSW, has over 32 years of experience in mental health and medical social work. She provides telehealth services and aims to engage more deeply with Black social workers in California.
Michael Guynn

NABSW National Rep
Michael Guynn has been involved with NABSW for over 20 years, committed to its Code of Ethics and Guiding Principles. He believes in using his knowledge to advocate and serve the community.