Social Work in a Strange World

I am Javad Teleshchi Yekta, a social worker and founder of the Iranian Social Work Media. Since 2011, I have been active in the field of Iranian social work media, often working tirelessly on media-related endeavors. Alongside this, I have engaged in fieldwork and practical social work, having established a social work clinic in 2005. Since 2013, I became acquainted with the topic of resilience, which fascinated me deeply, leading to the publication of numerous notes and articles on this subject across various media platforms.

The motivation behind this note stems from a deep-seated frustration. I have been discontent for years—not due to fatigue, family issues, job difficulties, or economic troubles, which many endure—but because of my understanding of certain individuals within the realm of social work in Iran. This has been a burden I have struggled to digest, further intensifying my fatigue. Numerous questions linger in my mind. Can a social worker commit injustice? Can a social worker align with an oppressor? Does a social worker’s association with the oppression of others not denote their own culpability? Can a social worker, widely recognized for their ethics and kindness, harbor a profoundly oppressive nature beneath this facade? How does such a transformation occur? How can a social worker, amidst countless constructive opportunities to behave humanely and engage compassionately, act in stark opposition to these ideals?

These questions, despite their simplicity, are profoundly challenging and painful, haunting me perpetually. I find it distressing that the true face of an individual can starkly contrast with their public persona, where they are perceived as ethical and professionally adept, yet, in my eyes, embody the essence of the most ruthless tyrants.

In conclusion, I urge the friends and audience of this media outlet to be more discerning in their perceptions of those around them, focusing less on appearances and words, and more on their actions. Let us not be indifferent to injustice for the sake of convenience or personal interests. One of the pressing afflictions of our society today is the widespread social indifference, which has regrettably escalated. As social workers, we should not be indifferent; rather, we must remain highly sensitive, attentive, and observant. In the coming days, I will write more notes. Thank you for taking the time to read my reflections.

Social Work in a Strange World      Social Work in a Strange World