Introduction to Abolition in Social Work Practice Part II

Introduction to Abolition in Social Work Practice Part II

Date: Monday, August 10, 2026

Time: 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. ET

Presenter: Imani Hutchinson, MSW, LGSW

CEUs: 2 Category I in Anti-Oppressive Social Work Practice Content in Anti-Racist Practices

Cost: Non-Member: $50 | Member: $30 | Retired Member: $20 | Student Member: $10

Please Note: This workshop fulfills 2 of the 3 credits required in Anti-Oppressive Social Work Practice Content.

Course Description

Building upon concepts introduced in Introduction to Abolitionist Social Work, this advanced session explores abolitionist social work as both a distinct practice framework and a guide for everyday social work practice. Participants will examine how abolitionist principles challenge traditional approaches to helping professions and offer alternative pathways grounded in self-determination, community care, restorative justice, and non-punitive responses to harm.

Drawing from the work of bell hooks, Angela Davis, and contemporary abolitionist social work scholars, attendees will explore the foundations of abolitionist social work and consider how it reimagines the role of the practitioner. Through discussion, case studies, and practical examples, participants will examine how abolitionist values can shape daily interactions, decision-making processes, advocacy efforts, and interventions across practice settings.

This training encourages critical reflection on traditional systems and approaches while offering practical tools for integrating abolitionist principles into work with individuals, families, groups, and communities.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:

1. Define abolitionist social work and its core principles.

2. Differentiate abolitionist social work from traditional social work models and approaches.

3. Identify practical abolitionist social work strategies and interventions that can be incorporated into professional practice.

Topics Covered

• Foundations of abolitionist social work

• Historical and contemporary abolitionist thought

• The work of bell hooks and Angela Davis

• Community-based care and support systems

• Restorative and transformative justice practices

• Client self-determination and empowerment

• Non-punitive approaches to addressing harm

• Critiquing traditional systems and interventions

• Applying abolitionist principles to daily practice

• Case studies and practice-based examples

Practice Application

Participants will explore how to:

• Incorporate abolitionist values into client engagement and assessment

• Support community-centered responses to harm and conflict

• Promote self-determination and client empowerment

• Apply restorative and transformative approaches within practice settings

• Align interventions with anti-oppressive and anti-racist social work principles

Key Themes

• Community care over punishment

• Healing-centered engagement

• Collective responsibility and accountability

• Social justice and systemic change

• Equity, liberation, and human dignity

Register here.