AIDS knows no social, racial or cultural barriers. Yet the rates of infection spiral especially among the poor, the disenfranchised and among people who struggle with inequality and oppression. They have not acted alone. Together they have shown an unbending resolve to work toward wellness, to openly engage the communities, and to assert and protect fundamental rights. This action is a potent reminder of the duty of compassion that binds us all.
Social workers are committed to the principles of social justice.
The principles of the profession explicitly provide that we work without prejudice with regard to gender, age, disability, colour, social class, race, religion, language, political beliefs or sexual orientation. Likewise, we must be mindful and aware of the impact of oppression and marginalization with regard to gender, age, disability, colour, social class, race, religion, language, political beliefs or sexual orientation. We are obligated to uphold stringently the principles of privacy, confidentiality and responsible use of information even when a country's legislation is in conflict with this demand. Through its pervasive and global scope, AIDS presents different challenges wherever it arises. This Manifesto is a call to action to social workers and social work educators everywhere to walk the critical paths that demand our attention, whether on the local, national or international level.