This article interrogates the myth of neutrality in social work—a passive complicity that upholds white supremacy as an epistemological norm. Drawing on critical race theory and liberatory praxis, we examine how dominant discourses weaponize claims of objectivity to stymie anti-racist and social justice efforts. Through conceptual analysis and literature synthesis, we argue that social work must evolve through three phases: from documenting inequity to analyzing mechanisms; from identifying harm to transformative action; and from micro-responses to collective mobilization. We reconceptualize historical inequities as complex trauma, demanding structural trauma-informed praxis across research, education, and practice. Findings from the literature reveal neutrality as an ideological enforcement protecting power. We conclude that conflict and discomfort are necessary portals for transformation. The profession must center care, responsibility, and conflict resilience to achieve justice-oriented moral transformation.
The myth of neutrality: Toward a courageous, justice-oriented social work praxis
Critical and Radical Social Work [Epub 2025 Jan 16]. doi: 10.1332/20498608Y2025D000000117.