Working with difference Essay
FSSC505
Donna Swift
Karl Ross
3258312
Social Work
2014
5th May 2014
Word count: 1420
The number of refugees in the world is increasing day by day. With wars between countries, religions and governments continuing, the number of displaced people on our planet is staggering. One of the most distressing realities is that most refugees are children. Young people often grow up with the experience of witnessing rape, torture and killing. The disappearance of family members, amputation by machetes and the destruction of their homes, are an everyday part of life. (Yapa.org.au, 2014) Great research, forward thinking and planning is required to best assist refugees and the communities that they are resettled into. The many questions that we face from this growing concern in our world are numerous. Refugees are everyday people facing extraordinary circumstances. (Redcross.org.nz, 2014) This essay will demonstrate the impact of the dominant discourse concerning the oppression and discrimination of refugees in New Zealand. I will explore how refugees are excluded in New Zealand culture, and I will explain how this has developed my own self awareness, as well as demonstrating an understanding of what anti oppressive practice is when working with difference. Due to the mass displacement of people around the world we are becoming a multiracial ethnic mix of people. Displacement of populations has resulted in concerns being expressed about what global responsibility should be taken. It is of vital importance that we take a look at differences in how we accommodate race and ethnic identities. (Dalrymple & Burke, 2006)
Growing up in the Land of the Long White Cloud conjures up images of green paddocks, long summer days at the beach and Sunday roasts. Life was full of opportunity for kiwis. School was free, Dad had
References: Bibliography: Dalrymple, J. and Burke, B. (2006). Anti-oppressive practice. 1st ed. Maidenhead: Open University Press. Balgopal, P. (2000). Social work practice with immigrants and refugees. 1st ed. New York: Columbia University Press. Baines, D. (2011). An overview of anti oppressive practice. UK: Fernwood Publishing. Redcross.org.nz, (2014). New Zealand Red Cross - Refugee Services. [online] Available at: https://www.redcross.org.nz/what-we-do/in-new-zealand/refugee-services/ [Accessed 30 Apr. 2014]. Sidanius, J., & Pratto, F. (2001) Social Dominance: An Intergroup Theory of Social Hierarchy and Oppression. UK: Cambridge University Press. Sumedho, A., Santacitto, A., Anando, A., Sucitto, A. (1990). Peace and Kindness. England: Amaravati Publications. Yapa.org.au, (2014). Opening the Doors: Refugee & migrant: Needs & issues. [online] Available at: http://www.yapa.org.au/openingdoors/migrants_refugees/needs_issues.php [Accessed 30 Apr. 2014].