NASW-CA EmpowerEd Program

Course Description

How do I support a person who identifies as LGBTQIA2S+? What do all of the letters mean? What is PRIDE? What contributions have LGBTQIA2S+ people made to our world? What defines the culture? Do you know and understand the history of the Gay Rights Movement? This workshop will develop and enrich your knowledge of the LGBTQIA2S+ culture, community, and share the history of the struggles faced. We will also explore the experiences in today’s political and community environment. We will learn the ‘lingo’ and gain an understanding of personal identity development, the coming out process, and examine supportive steps you can take to help members of the LGBTQIA2S+ population in your community.

Target Audience

This introductory course was created for social workers, behavioral health practitioners, and other service providers who are interested in research and resources related to helping and supporting clients who identify as LGBTQIA2S+.

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to do the following:

• Learn and understand the language used by and with the LGBTQIA2S+ community to enhance cultural competence and provide an inclusive environment within one’s organization.
• Develop and enrich your knowledge of the development of an LGBTQIA2S+ identity, to better inform your professional practice.
• Learn the history of the LGBTQIA2S+ community and cultural movement to gain insight into the development and the struggles sometimes faced by members of the community.
• Examine ethical considerations, personal biases, and social constructs in our daily living and work in the helping professions; and reflect on improving one’s personal and professional inclusive excellence.