Association of Black Social Work Students

Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for students of Black/African descent on the University of Michigan campus, and empower people of Black/African Descent through advocacy, community service, relationship building, and creating safe spaces for said groups to feel free from cultural persecution and stigma. Like our national chapter, ABSW-UM is guided by the Principles of the Nguzo Saba, which are Unity, Self-determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith, and the Seven Cardinal Virtues of Ma’at, which are Right, Truth, Justice, Order, Reciprocity, Balance, and Harmony. In collaboration with other students groups, community organizations, and the national ABSW chapter, ABSWS will continue to leverage our collective expertise to help Black and African students on campus feel included and empowered, and assist the larger surrounding communities of African Descent in working toward social and cultural progress.