MASS SOCIAL WORKERS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Rebekah Gewirtz, Director of Government Relations and Political Action
Phone: 617-227-9635 x12
Email: gewirtz@naswma.org
Date: October 2, 2008

National Association of Social Workers, MA PACE Endorses Sonia Chang-Diaz for State Senate

BOSTON, MA –– The National Association of Social Workers Massachusetts Chapter PACE (NASW MA PACE), the largest social work organization in the Commonwealth with 8,300 social worker members, has endorsed Sonia Chang-Diaz for State Senator of the 2nd Suffolk district.

NASW's core mission includes ensuring all people have access to healthcare, basic education and the opportunity to earn a fair wage. NASW's political action arm endorses candidates with a solid commitment to these values and an understanding of how the system works. In keeping with social work values, Sonia Chang-Diaz has been a strong advocate for policy priorities that strengthen the social safety net that make a critical difference to vulnerable populations in the Commonwealth.

Genvieve Coyle, Chair of NASW MA PACE said, "We are proud to endorse Sonia Chang-Díaz for State Senate. As a former urban school teacher, an activist in her Roxbury church community, and as a former senior legislative aide, Sonia has been a strong advocate for the populations we serve as social workers. She understands the critical role that social workers play in strengthening our communities. We know Sonia will work hard as the next State Senator in the 2nd Suffolk district for the values our organization holds dear."

"I am so honored to have the support of NASW," said Chang-Díaz. "Growing up the daughter of a social worker, I know first-hand the struggles faced by social workers and the families they serve—working to overcome poverty and inequality on an everyday basis. Carrying on this work at the state level is at the heart of why I'm running. So NASW's endorsement is especially meaningful to me."

For more information on how NASW MA PACE is supporting candidates in the Commonwealth, please contact Kathryn Audette at 617-227-9635 x20 or via e-mail at audette@naswma.org or Rebekah Gewirtz at 617-227-9635 x12. Or visit our Website at: www.naswma.org.

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