Disproportionality Research

I'm week 12 into my field placement and all I can think about is how important this research is to the children and families we serve. Going into this macro placement, I wasn't exactly sure what to expect. Every day I learn sometimes new and I am inspired to do macro work. We distributed a survey that looks at disproportionality on the different levels: individual, system, and society. We have a lot of work to do. The question is how do you discuss race in an organization that is having an issue with disproportionality in child welfare?

 Sometimes, I have to try to think in a way that is neutral to people of color. I honestly, feel for my people of color who are being discriminated against and oppressed. Now I have to come up with recommendations to help address disproportionality.

Recommendations we already have are:

• A training on implicit bias (normalize it and don’t make it about race)
• Activities such as self-reflection, icebreakers, and allowing people to to have discussion
• Training in schools, and police department about disproportionality
• Have people listen to CPS phone calls
• Support Groups for workers
• Find ways to increase client engagement
• Raise awareness about disproportionality

• Having more family partnership meetings
• Partnership with other organizations
• Interfacing with the community more in a positive light
• Cultural brokers
• Cultural competent mandated reporter training
• Having intensive training for staff
• In-house trainings

Any suggestions? Let's have a discussion. Please comment below.