Where Banks and Wall Street Really Behind Occupy Crackdown?

It might be hard i imagine, but it has been over a year since Occupy Wall Street became an international phenomena and disappeared into the night almost as quickly. The Partnership for Civil Justice has requested and provided documentation of how the crackdown on OWS went down....
Where Banks and Wall Street Really Behind Occupy Crackdown?

What Do You Stand For?

It has been incredible difficult for me to write as of late. I read through countless news stories which have blended together in a devilish mix of gun control, fiscal cliff and overall gridlock of common sense. Writer’s block won’t even describe it. I see and hear it everywhere I go. Not...
What Do You Stand For?

Delhi Gang Rape Victim Dies in Singapore Hospital

The Gang rape victim whose violent assault on a bus in Delhi sparked recent protests has passed away from her injuries in a Singapore Hospital. As her funeral took place in India, calls for action continued to pour in from those in India and abroad. Candle light vigils and protests continued...
Delhi Gang Rape Victim Dies in Singapore Hospital

Accountability For Cultural Attitudes That Contribute To Rape

I came across a piece written By Urvashi Butalia, a feminist writer living in India.S he wrote as protests began to develop around the country in response to the public gang rape of a woman in the India. It’s important to hear an inside perspective on such matters. Although some subjects...
Accountability For Cultural Attitudes That Contribute To Rape

Security Fix For W3 Total Cache Released

SJS recently reported that W3 Total Cache WordPress Plugin could potentially leave sensitive data vulnerable. Frederick Townes of W3 Cache was kind enough to leave a comment explaining how to fix the vulnerability with an updated version of W3 Cache now available on WordPress.com   For...
Security Fix For W3 Total Cache Released

Support Groups in the Long Island, NY Area

Starting Jan. 2013, there are two support groups starting in the Long Island, NY area: The Veterans Group sponsored by USVMCLI (http://www.usvmcli.org/) starts meeting on Jan. 3, 2013, and every Thursday at 7:00pm at Henrietta Acampora Recreation Center. The address is 39 Montauk Highway, Blue...
Support Groups in the Long Island, NY Area

Congress Is Failing You As The Fiscal Cliff Cometh

Groundhogs day is upon us yet again, no not the one in February,  the one where Congress waits to the last possible moment to try and compromise on legislation that will not cripple America and its people. There is no easy way to say this, Congress is failing the American people. They...
Congress Is Failing You As The Fiscal Cliff Cometh

Set Resolution a New Way for the New Year

New Year’s is just a few days away, and so we are all starting to think about those New Year’s resolutions that we feel pressured to not only make, but to make some grand thing. The bigger the resolution that is set, generally the quicker that resolution is cast aside and we feel bad that...
Set Resolution a New Way for the New Year

Public Information or Privacy Violation?: New York Gun Owners' have Information Released

Registered gun owners in Westchester, Putnam, and Rockland Counties in New York were in for a shock earlier this week when their addresses and names were released, and mapped, in an article written by The Journal News titled “The Gun Owner Next Door: What you Don’t Know About the...
Public Information or Privacy Violation?: New York Gun Owners" have Information Released

In Support of Evidence-Based Social Work Practice

There’s been an ongoing debate over evidence-based practice in social work.  I understand the concerns over a one-size fits all mindset in what is meant to be a person-centered practice. I also understand the concerns that sometimes numbers are simply tweaked to satisfy newly instituted,...
In Support of Evidence-Based Social Work Practice

W3 Total Cache Wordpress Plugin Reveals Sensitive Information

This is not technically a social justice issue, but SJS and many other bloggers we know use WordPress. W3 Total Cache is a tool for improving the speed of your website using various caching methods. A vulnerability has been discovered in the plugin that will leave information such as...
W3 Total Cache Wordpress Plugin Reveals Sensitive Information

The Meaning of Clutter

Clutter; a word that takes over some people’s lives in thinking, behavior and lifestyle. Some people do not know where to start. Some people hire professionals to come into their home and de-clutter it. What is the basis of this disorganization? Lack of time? Lack of motivation? Lack of...
The Meaning of Clutter

The Power of Listening

By Michelle Sicignano, LMSW, SJS Staff Writer, Leo Buscaglia said, “Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” As social workers, this is...
The Power of Listening

Social Justice and The Church

Social workers are trained to delineate between economic freedom and humanitarian freedom. Economic freedom is conceptualized as a persons ability to express their will in the market place. By these selections  fortunes rise and fall;  beliefs are expressed as they financially support the...
Social Justice and The Church

Tradition and Pride

I just watched the movie ‘Brave’ again with my kids. Three generations bonding as a family, watching what I consider to be a wonderful movie full of meaning. “Mend the bond torn by pride” is one of the themes of the movie and I would say is the main theme. Merida repeats this mantra over...
Tradition and Pride

Eating Disorder Recovery, and Food Related Illnesses Can be Difficult During the Holidays

We all know that from Halloween to New Years our gatherings and holidays tend to have a focus on bountiful food. Many cultures have their specific food items, such as the tradition of latkes for Hanukkah, and many families have their own food traditions to go along with their celebrations....
Eating Disorder Recovery, and Food Related Illnesses Can be Difficult During the Holidays

The Happiness Interview

While reading Good Housekeeping, Jan. 2013 edition, I came across a short article called “The Happiness Interview” with Nilofer Merchant and Gretchen Rubin. The article featured a brief interview with Merchant about the topic of happiness. The questions were broad, and covered areas...
The Happiness Interview

Project Paw: Making a Difference One Paw at a Time

Since I was young, I had a love for animals especially dogs and cats. I have had birds, turtles, cats, fish, hermit crabs, and dogs. It fascinates me the differences between each animal. Animals I feel are similar to humans; different personalities that can enrich the lives of both companions....
Project Paw: Making a Difference One Paw at a Time

Marketing Genius Seth Godin's has a lot in common with Social Work

Marketing genius Seth Godin’s take on the “Hierarchy Of Success” brings to mind Prochaska and DiClemente’s Transtheoretical Model of Change and makes great sense for social workers. Too often it seems we put the cart before the horse, and with the trend toward shorter and...
Marketing Genius Seth Godin"s has a lot in common with Social Work

Merry Xmas

SJS is wishing you and yours a merry, happy, safe, loving and compassionate Christmas.
Merry Xmas

Social Change Might Take 1000, Let's Start Anyway.

One of the main reasons that social change is hard to come by is that it simply takes time. A person might read that and think I mean 5 years, or maybe 10, but that is not what I have in mind. A real social movement could literally take thousands of years to be effective. At the heart of it,...
Social Change Might Take 1000, Let"s Start Anyway.

Domestic Abuse Survivor To Give Up Guns: Interview With Goldie Taylor

MSNBC contributor Goldie Taylor, who announced on Monday that she is giving up her gun following the Newtown massacre. After losing both her father and her brother to gun violence in St. Louis, and later being victimized by domestic violence, she purchased a gun for her own protection, but now...
Domestic Abuse Survivor To Give Up Guns: Interview With Goldie Taylor

War Isn't Over, I Guess We Don't Want It. A Holiday Message From SJS

John Lennon’s song “Happy Christmas (Was Is Over)”, has always had a haunting effect, I hardly think that any song brings more emotion from my heart. Year after year it remains a constant, it continue to present the standard by which we should be living, and have yet to live up...
War Isn"t Over, I Guess We Don"t Want It. A Holiday Message From SJS

NRA Solution To School Violence, An Arms Race

In our MSW macro class, Professor Hymowitz was always clear about the first steps in starting a new organization; what is you mission and what is your vision? These are the sort of critical questions that have a bearing on all aspects of life, micro and macro. I was reminded of this as the...
NRA Solution To School Violence, An Arms Race

Public Gang Rape of Woman in Indian Capital Prompts Outrage and Protests

The public gang rape of a 23 year old women in New Delhi on a moving bus last week has sparked outrage and protests across the nation. Last week’s case was brutal, leaving the women in intensive care for days, and leading to the arrest of 6 people including the buses driver and a minor....
Public Gang Rape of Woman in Indian Capital Prompts Outrage and Protests

Making it Snow For Sandy Hook Students. The Snowflake Drive.

When school resumes for Sandy Hook, it will be in a new building. Parent-volunteers are working to ensure that the students are welcomed back by a winter wonderland with the entire school decorated with as many unique snowflakes as possible. We encourage senders to be as creative as possible, remembering that no two snowflakes are alike. Please make and send snowflakes by January 12, 2013 to the Connecticut PTSA.

LETS MAKE THIS VIRAL YA’LL….*Note* this is not an event that you physically attend!

Please send all snowflakes to:
Connecticut PTSA
60 Connolly Parkway
Building 12, Suite 103
Hamden, CT 06514

Making it Snow For Sandy Hook Students. The Snowflake Drive.

Big Data Analysis and Quality Improvement in Social Services

If data can help Target figure out a young girl is pregnant before her parents, or let a a consumer know a particular cut of pants might be more slimming for her body type based on past purchase information and data analysis,  then surely it has a place in improving social service...
Big Data Analysis and Quality Improvement in Social Services

Rhonda Lee, the African-American TV meteorologist who was fired by Louisiana’s KTBS last month after responding to a viewer?s criticism of her short, natural hairstyle on Facebook. Lee wrote: “I am very proud of my African-American ancestry which includes my hair … I’m...

How the Hobbit Made Me A Social Worker

I can picture the bookshelf in the middle school library to this day; the broken green spine staring at me. The title, “The Hobbit”. It was one of those moments, looking back I was positive that the course of my life was changed that day. I am not exaggerating, I have had such...
How the Hobbit Made Me A Social Worker

Does your Socioecomonic Status Determine Your Social 'Network'?

How do we determine how to allocate our time, resources, and friendship with those whom we call friends or acquaintances? An interesting set of research studies conducted by Social Psychologists Shigehiro Oishi  Selin Kesebir suggest that Socioeconomic factors might have something to do with...
Does your Socioecomonic Status Determine Your Social "Network"?

Aboriginals Protest and the Injustices that are Occuring for the Roma

There is so much one can comment on with the news, due to all the injustices in the world. Where does one start? What is your definition of injustice? As I look through my local paper, listen to friends, colleagues and clients and search the web-two injustices grab my attention- The Roma...
Aboriginals Protest and the Injustices that are Occuring for the Roma

What Social Workers Make?

The dinner guests were sitting around the table discussing life. One man decided to explain the problem with social services. He argued, “How’s a person going to benefit from someone who decided his best option in life was to before a social worker?” He reminded the other dinner guests...
What Social Workers Make?

Don't Blame Autism for the Sandy Hook Shootings

Amid rampant news coverage of last Friday’s tragic shooting, and the announcement that the shooter suffered from Aspergers Disorder, there is a growing concern for those with Autism Spectrum Disorders: That they will be marked as likely to partake in premeditated violence. This concern...
Don"t Blame Autism for the Sandy Hook Shootings

Research at the Centre for Studies on Human Stress in Montreal and Bullying

by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer in Canada While reading the Montreal Gazette this morning I came across an article titled: “Bullying leaves its mark on mood gene, study finds.” Naturally, this grabbed my interest, especially considering the events of last Friday in both...
Research at the Centre for Studies on Human Stress in Montreal and Bullying

Ode to A Social Worker

I wear my heart on my sleeve, And that’s perfectly fine by me. Insightful to emotions, But must remember to filter out the poisons.   **Written By Audrey Haven MSW, SJS Staff Writer**
Ode to A Social Worker

Horses Becoming Social Workers In The U.K....It's About Time

In these dark days it is sometimes a good idea to take our mind off the negative, what better way than discussing animals and therapy. In this case Equine (Horses) Assisted Therapy is gaining traction in the United Kingdom. Originally developed in the United States, EAT has made that large...
Horses Becoming Social Workers In The U.K....It"s About Time

A Reality Love Story

I’ll admit it, there are certain reality shows that I love to watch. I attempt to shun them and act as though they hold no appeal and then somehow find myself completely engrossed in someone else’s life. Although I still stand true to my belief that some reality shows, such as The...
A Reality Love Story

Russian Lawmakers Move to Ban US Adoptions after US Passes Human Rights Law

Russian Lawmakers are seeking to pass a law which would prohibit adoption of Russian children and infants by US citizens. This law, which has already been passed by Russia’s lower House of Parliament (the State Duma), appears to be in response to the Magnitsky Act passed last week which...
Russian Lawmakers Move to Ban US Adoptions after US Passes Human Rights Law

Volunteering and Happiness

by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer in Canada Upon reading an article in a Good Housekeeping magazine from October of this year (2012), I came across an article titled: “The Happiness Boomerang: Give a Little of your Time and get a lot of Joy in Return” -  I am sure...
Volunteering and Happiness

How The Tea Party Threw The Republican Party Into The Harbor

By: Courtney Kidd, LMSW               SJS Staff Writer The Tea Party might have cost the Republican party everything.  What was once seen as the revival of the conservative party might have gone too far, sending the Right, right off the cliff. Early on in the party’s movement,...
How The Tea Party Threw The Republican Party Into The Harbor

Why Australia Bit The Bullet & Pulled The Trigger On Gun Control

By: Courtney Kidd, LMSW    SJS Staff Writer Australia is typically seen as a rough country, filled with crocodile hunters and deadly animals at every turn. It might be assumed that this down-under country would side with pro-gun groups in the wake of the shooting. Prior to 1996 they might...
Why Australia Bit The Bullet & Pulled The Trigger On Gun Control

The World Needs Your Voice....Yes....You

Social Justice Solutions has been an active organization for over 9 months now. We have had ample time gauge reaction to SJS and what we stand for.  I have found this to be a somewhat mixed experience. On the one hand there is a clear hunger for the promotion of social justice in a way that is...
The World Needs Your Voice....Yes....You

How the Dalai Lama's Doctor Would Treat Your Symptoms

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer This CNN article looks at the Tibetan Medicine approach to treating disease by discussing interviews and talks given by Dr. Tsewang Tamdin’s, world renowned doctor of Tibetan Medicine. Taking an individualist and holistic approach to disease...
How the Dalai Lama"s Doctor Would Treat Your Symptoms

The Power of Books

by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer in Canada I am an avid reader and at any one point in time am reading between 2-3 books depending on my mood and where I am when reading, at home, at work on break, at a medical appointment, etc. Books are a wonderful way to learn about and...
The Power of Books

Midnight

By Crystal Hill
Guest Blogger

Static trough the glass door.

A waterfall in my living room.

The night is dancing.

The sweet lullaby of eternity.

Midnight

The Last Slave State

By: Courtney Kidd, LMSW    SJS staff writer In Mauritania, 10-20% of the country’s population is enslaved.  This western African country was the last in the world to criminalize slavery  in 1981, but has only prosecuted one case successfully.  Although illegal, slavery continues to...
The Last Slave State

Emotional Intelligence and Preventive Mental Health Care

by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer in Canada I read the following article (http://www.kevinmd.com/blog/2012/12/society-honor-dead-children.html) and the first thing that came to my mind is that the events of Friday and all the other events that have occurred in the world where...
Emotional Intelligence and Preventive Mental Health Care

What Suicide Can Teach Us About Prevention: A Reflection Of A Tragedy

By: Courtney...
What Suicide Can Teach Us About Prevention: A Reflection Of A Tragedy

A Continuation of Ashley Judd's, "All That is Bitter and Sweet"

by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer in Canada My initial write-up focused on the first half of the book. (http://northernmsw.wordpress.com/2012/12/05/ashley-judds-all-that-is-bitter-and-sweet/). This write-up focuses on the second half of the book which is part of Ashley...
A Continuation of Ashley Judd"s, "All That is Bitter and Sweet"

Fear Of Death Causes Death: The Self Fulfilling Prophecy

By Matthew Cohen SJS Staff Writer Details have emerged from the unthinkable tragedy in Newtown. There have been reports that Adam Lanza’s guns were taken from his mother. It has also been reported that Ms. Lanza began to buy guns following a divorce for fear of being alone in a large...
Fear Of Death Causes Death: The Self Fulfilling Prophecy

In the Aftermath of Newtown, Connecticut A Heart-Wrenching Cry For Help

 by Michelle Sicignano, LMSW, Staff Writer, SJS   I Am Adam Lanza’s Mother, by Liza Long is a heart-wrenching first person account that is both scary and true. I urge everyone to read the piece (accessed through this link).  This woman’s pain and helplessness is too real for too...
In the Aftermath of Newtown, Connecticut A Heart-Wrenching Cry For Help

Mental Health and the Connecticut Shooting: Treating the Causes of Mental Illness

By Justin Nutt Guest Blogger www.Justinnutt.com The events that occurred in Connecticut on December 14th were tragic with the deaths of so many innocent children and adults for no logical reason. As I read news stories, watched news updates, and saw the statuses which were being posted on...
Mental Health and the Connecticut Shooting: Treating the Causes of Mental Illness

Worldwide Pain and Grief

By Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer in Canada Friday was certainly a day of tragedy, but this word does not adequately describe what happened. How is it that there are so many people that have such internal negative thoughts, feelings of hate, anger and the wish to harm? I cannot...
Worldwide Pain and Grief

Hurricane Sandy Petition - Urge Congress To Put People Before Politics

Hurricane Sandy Petition - Urge Congress To Put People Before Politics First Name Last...
Hurricane Sandy Petition - Urge Congress To Put People Before Politics

Talking to Children about the News

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer Many of us in the profession have now seen the SAMHSA and other guidelines for discussing tragedy and bereavement with youth, but what about some simpler tips to discuss the news itself, whatever it might be? Through the internet, chit chat, phones,...
Talking to Children about the News

Give Your Self Permission To Be Sad

There are dozens of ways to cope with tragedies, but I want to share what I believe to be the most powerful. When sad, just give yourself permission to remain so. This is contrary to what we normally do; we are always trying to get our mind of things, trying to talk ourselves out of it, or...
Give Your Self Permission To Be Sad

Coping with Tragedy: Resources for Bereavement

I came across this website when researching resources for bereavement. The National Bereavement Resource Guide was created by New York Life and The Moyer Foundation (http://www.moyerfoundation.org/nbrg/default.aspx). They compiled a list of state and local resources for...
Coping with Tragedy: Resources for Bereavement

Tragedy in the Screams and Tears of Children

Today marks tragedy for two communities half way around the world from one another. Ryan Lanza shot students and staff members in Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newton, CT resulting in 26 deaths (20 children and 6 adults). Min Yingjun stabbed 22 children and 1 adult at a school in...
Tragedy in the Screams and Tears of Children

22 Children Wounded In China By Knife Wielding Attacker

This has been a rather disturbing day with the Newtown shootings, and apparently something eerily similar happened in China earlier today. Twenty Two children were injured in China by a knife wielding man at an elementary school in Central China. CBS is reporting that none of the children...
22 Children Wounded In China By Knife Wielding Attacker

Conn. School Shooting | There Is No Way To Make Sense Of This Madness

I sit here trying to think of something poignant to say, but my heart is broken. I could never imagine that  like this could happen, its impossible to take in. Two things will come from this, the gun control folks will start talking about how this could be prevented, and everyone is going to...
Conn. School Shooting | There Is No Way To Make Sense Of This Madness

A Personal Reflection on Tragedy

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer As my office and Facebook account fills up with talk of the shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown Connecticut I can’t help but reflect on my own personal experiences with tragedy. I’ve sat three times with friends as...
A Personal Reflection on Tragedy

U.S. Troops To Turkey Amid Concerns Over Syria's Missiles

By: Courtney Kidd,LMSW                                                                                                        SJS Staff Writer The U.S. is sending 400 troops to Turkey, as part...
U.S. Troops To Turkey Amid Concerns Over Syria"s Missiles

A Blood Test to Detect Genetic Markers for Autism?

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer Diagnosing an individual on the Autism Spectrum is a complex game of observations, testings, and assessments. Typically diagnosis is best made by a team of specialists composed of, but not limited to, a Social Worker, a psychologist, a speech...
A Blood Test to Detect Genetic Markers for Autism?

Housing for Older Adults with Physical Limitations

by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer in Canada I came across this article on housing for seniors/older adults with high needs in London, Ontario. Everything about the housing unit is for an individual who is in a wheelchair and has physical disabilities. Wide doorways, low light...
Housing for Older Adults with Physical Limitations

SJS on Twitter

Please SHARE this if you find SJS helpful, we rely on your word of mouth!
SJS on Twitter

Patient-Centered Practice May Decrease Pain

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSWSJS Staff Writer A recent article by Science Daily looks at a small research study recently done regarding the impacts of Patient-Centered Practice with those seeking services from Physicians. The study done with 9 women suggests that those who experience...
Patient-Centered Practice May Decrease Pain

The Power and Importance of Language

By Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer in Canada Language-what does this one word mean to you? What does it say to you? How do you define it? As one who works with older adults (50+), language is important no matter what setting I am in. Language plays a crucial role in shaping the...
The Power and Importance of Language

Persuasion May Rest With Your Word Choice

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer Do you ever feel that you need a boost in your ability to be persuasive with clients, bosses, potential grant funders or with other agencies with which you might engage when seeking to advocate or find services for your clients? Well, this boost might...
Persuasion May Rest With Your Word Choice

Racism and Misogyny Alive And Well - The Firing of Meteorologist Rhonda Lee

Most of us by now have heard the news reports of Rhonda Lee, the African American female meteorologist fired for responding to a viewers Facebook criticism of her hair style. These two links relate the details: Meteorologist fired after responding to viewer who didn’t like her...
Racism and Misogyny Alive And Well - The Firing of Meteorologist Rhonda Lee

North Korea - Successful Rocket Launch Puts An Object In Orbit

There has been growing International concern over technological advances in rocketry in North Korea. Past attempts have failed, but in the latest attempt the multi-stage rocket was able to enter space and deploy an object in orbit. North Korea is claiming that they deployed a...
North Korea - Successful Rocket Launch Puts An Object In Orbit

Canadian Courts to Decide on End-of-Life Treatment

By Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer in Canada Since 2010 he has been in a vegetative state-kept alive by machines. The family immigrated from Iran in May of 2010 and five months later he underwent surgery for a benign brain tumor. Unfortunately, he developed an infection which...
Canadian Courts to Decide on End-of-Life Treatment

Michigan Lawmakers Pass 'Right to Work' Bills Limiting Union Power

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer In a somewhat controversial move, the Republican held Michigan House followed on the heals of the Senate and passed two “Right to Work” bills amid protests in the capital this afternoon. These legislations will allow workers...
Michigan Lawmakers Pass "Right to Work" Bills Limiting Union Power

Gay Marriage Goes To Supreme Court

The Big 9, The U.S. Supreme Court will hear two cases regarding same-sex marriage.  Over the past few years all signs have pointed that this was an inevitable outcome of recent legalization of gay marriage in several US states.  Although it is possible that the Court will focus on...
Gay Marriage Goes To Supreme Court

Therapeutic Cooking and Culinary Therapy

by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer in Canada One of my friends who has an MSW degree began a group this fall that focuses on Therapeutic Cooking with adults with Mental Health Issues. It is very new, little research has been conducted, but already the benefits can be seen. A...
Therapeutic Cooking and Culinary Therapy

Make the world a better place

A Justin Nutt Original   http://Justinnutt.com
Make the world a better place

Resource: The National Child Traumatic Stress Network

The National Child Traumatic Stress Network is a joint project funded by SAMSHA, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, in an effort to gather research, promote awareness, and disseminate information on “one of our most under-recognized public health...
Resource: The National Child Traumatic Stress Network

The Mistakes We'll Only Make Once

By: Courtney Kidd, LMSW                                                                                                       SJS Staff Writer...
The Mistakes We"ll Only Make Once

SAMHSA's Tips for Talking to Youth after Natural Disasters or Traumatic Events

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writers The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has published “Tips for Talking With and Helping Children and Youth Cope After a Disaster or Traumatic Event: A Guide For Parents, Caregivers, And Teachers“. The article...
SAMHSA"s Tips for Talking to Youth after Natural Disasters or Traumatic Events

Petition Against Forced Organ Harvesting

From SJS Reader Donna Turner. Many thanks to Donna and please help follow Donna’s lead by helping SJS become aware of social justice issues around the world. Petition Against Forced Organ Harvesting: Tens of thousands of illegally imprisoned Falun Gong believers have been used as a living...
Petition Against Forced Organ Harvesting

One's Communication/Learning Style

by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer in Montreal, Canada I came across a great discussion on LinkedIn which focused on one’s learning style. Do you know yours? There are seven which focus on auditory, visual, kinesthetic, social, verbal, intrapersonal, and logical....
One"s Communication/Learning Style

Egyptian President Retracts Decree Giving Him Expanded Power

By Georgianna Reilly SJS Staff Writer In response to recent riots and protests in Egypt President Mursi has retracted a recent decree made in November which gave him power over the juridical section of his government.  But is this action too late in the eyes of opponents? While he has gotten...
Egyptian President Retracts Decree Giving Him Expanded Power

Resumes, CV's and Career Choices.....

by Victoria Brewster, MSW -SJS Staff Writer in Montreal, Canada I just read a discussion topic on LinkedIn that piqued my interest to read further. It focused on a resume and how ‘The Number 1 Mistake Professionals Make’ is to be too diversified careerwise. Is there such a thing? The...
Resumes, CV"s and Career Choices.....

Obama Asks Congress For 60 Billion In Sandy Relief, Will Congress Answer The Call?

The debt ceiling disaster and the fiscal cliff debacle are proof that America’s elected officials care more about ideologies than people. The abysmal failure of the two party system is going to be tested again when Congress decided whether to approve the 60 billion dollars that...
Obama Asks Congress For 60 Billion In Sandy Relief, Will Congress Answer The Call?

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"Austerity Doesn’t Work"- British Government

Imagine Giving An Infant A Psychiatric Drug

US Congress Bans Use of the Word 'Lunatic' in Federal Legislation

What is Best for the Client/Patient?

Memorial Service For Cats Of Mirikitani Star

DSM 5, Why?

Tibet Is In Flames After 90 Suicides By Fire

Six Habits to Nurture your Empathy

Ashley Judd's "All That is Bitter and Sweet"

Pups With PTSD

It's The End Of World As We Know It And I Feel Like Panicking

Tensions Rise as Egyptians Continue to Protest

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer CNN News and BBC News both report that things are continuing to heat up in Egypt as a result of President Morsi’s November 22nd power play that granted him power over the juridical section of his government. This move was done in an effort on...
Tensions Rise as Egyptians Continue to Protest

Advance Care Directive, Mandate, Power of Attorney or Health Proxy

by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer in Montreal, Canada So, if you are like me-you have not written up an advance care directive/mandate for healthcare wishes should I/you become incapacitated, because…..well….we are young yet. But you know what, I should and everyone...
Advance Care Directive, Mandate, Power of Attorney or Health Proxy

Can Women Tell If Men Are Cheaters From Just One Look?

by Michelle Sicignano, LMSW, Staff Writer, Social Justice Solutions An article today in Business Insider, Women Can Tell If Men Are Cheaters Just From One Look, based on a Dec. 4,  entry in the  journal Biology Letters suggests yes, in fact, women can accurately predict which men are likely...
Can Women Tell If Men Are Cheaters From Just One Look?

Tis the Season to be Giving Fa la la la la, la la la la!

Each year around the holiday time since I was younger, my family has the tradition to organize and collect donations for different charities. I am hoping to expand this beyond family and close friends this year. I am collecting donations for Long Island Cares (http://www.licares.org/), Big...
Tis the Season to be Giving Fa la la la la, la la la la!

Can You be Banned from Participating in Social Justice Work?

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer Can you be banned from social justice work due to past actions and your arrest record? According to the case of Tim DeChristopher, climate activist from Utah who was fined and jailed after posing as a bidder in a high stakes public land auction you...
Can You be Banned from Participating in Social Justice Work?

Support Priceless Campaign Fundraiser

The Priceless Campaign has been featured on SJS before, it tackles sexual abuse, a most needed area of concentration. This is from Ruby over at priceless. They are in the middle of a fundraiser so please lend them your support. Good Morning Social Justice Solutions, 1 in 4 Teenage Girls are...
Support Priceless Campaign Fundraiser

Who is Your Imaginary Audience?

by Vikki Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer in Montreal, Canada We all have our own imaginary audience who judges us, offers us support, inspires us and criticizes us. This imaginary audience is our own internal dialogue and where would we be without it? We are our own committee. All of us...
Who is Your Imaginary Audience?

Yoga Everyday - A Reflection

It is rather hard to obtain perspective when you are moving to often and too fast. That’s how I feel, like a missile that was fired 3 years ago. I look back on the time and I wonder how I am left standing. In this time I have helped plan a wedding and married my wonderful wife. I have...
Yoga Everyday - A Reflection

Pop Culture, the Fashion Industry, and Systematic Racism

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer This discussion couldn’t come at a better time than right after our Thanksgiving feast here in America. In this article by CNN the author discusses pop culture and the fashion industry’s rocky relationship with Native American tribes and...
Pop Culture, the Fashion Industry, and Systematic Racism

I Didn't Do It: How Liars Become "Good Liars"

For NCIS fans out there, Gibbs’ rule #7: Always be specific when you lie, is a well known adage that holds a lot more truth than we realize. Liars, or bad liars, give themselves away in many ways with one of those ways being that the story just does not sound genuine. When we tell stories,...
I Didn"t Do It: How Liars Become "Good Liars"

A Definition of Family

by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer in Montreal, Canada Family, the word has many definitions depending on who is defining it. Family can be parents and children, husband and wife, extended family members of cousins, aunts and uncles and then there are friends. Family, in a...
A Definition of Family

Policy and Community Development as a Means to Developing Healthier Communities

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer Coming from a macro social work background with experience in health policy development within school districts, I feel that the link between policy, community development and structure, and health is often drastically overlooked. It is clear to many...
Policy and Community Development as a Means to Developing Healthier Communities

Our Ecosystems: What Enters it and Should Not....

by Vikki Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer in Montreal, Canada I sit down to read the Saturday paper and on page 2 is a write-up about “Medications could damage river ecosystem.” Montreal is itself an island and every time I leave Montreal to visit friends or family off island,...
Our Ecosystems: What Enters it and Should Not....

Sex and the Brain: What is Going on in the Brain of a Cheater?

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer We’ve all heard about the Petraeus scandal recently. Successful man risks title, job, friendships, and marriage for a step away from sexual monogamy. It happens all too often, in all socioeconomic levels, that an individual sexually cheats on...
Sex and the Brain: What is Going on in the Brain of a Cheater?

Innovative Tech-Based Government Program Saves Millions in Missouri

Written by Michelle Sicignano, LMSW, Staff Writer, Social Justice Solutions With an innovative 5 year plan to save $500 million, the”"Missouri Department of Transportation (MODOT) is one of the most innovative organizations using social and mobile technologies in the country. In fact,...
Innovative Tech-Based Government Program Saves Millions in Missouri

Is Prison the Right Placement for one who has a Mental Health Issue who has Commited a Crime?

by Vikki Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer in Montreal, Canada I have to say I was a bit surprised when I came across this article in the Huffington Post-Canada: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/dyanoosh-youssefi/mentally-ill_b_2206105.html . I am sure I am not the only one that feels that...
Is Prison the Right Placement for one who has a Mental Health Issue who has Commited a Crime?

Song Supporting Same Sex Marriage Prompts Middle School Teacher's Suspension

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer Recently, a middle school teacher in the Detroit, Susan Johnson, area played a the song “Same Love” in her performing arts class at the suggestion of a student. The song’s lyrics support and promote diversity,  by supporting same...
Song Supporting Same Sex Marriage Prompts Middle School Teacher"s Suspension

For Non-Profits, Innovation or Caution?

by Michelle Sicignano, LMSW, Staff Writer, Social Justice Solutions An interesting piece from Seth’s Blog   Non-profits have a charter to be innovators, made me wonder. Seth Godin says, “The biggest, best-funded non profits have an obligation to be leaders in innovation, but...
For Non-Profits, Innovation or Caution?

Palestine Granted Non-Member Observer State Status in the United Nations

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer In a historic, although mostly symbolic, move the United Nations Assembly has granted Palestine “Non-Member Observer State” status in the UN Body in a 138 for and 9 against vote (with 41 absentees). This approval came on the day in which...
Palestine Granted Non-Member Observer State Status in the United Nations

New Dementia Study in Montreal, Canada at McGill University

by Vikki Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer in Montreal, Canada The benefit to living in a city that has good universities is the research they conduct. Here in Montreal we have McGill, Concordia, University de Montreal and a few others, but McGill is the one that many know. A university...
New Dementia Study in Montreal, Canada at McGill University

Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice; An Interview with Jeremy Kohomban, Ph.D., President and CEO of Children’s Village

By Michelle Sicignano, LMSW SJS Staff Writer I had an opportunity to interview The President and CEO of Children’s Village, Dr. Jeremy Kohomban, a noted expert in child welfare. He “most recently received the 2011 Samuel Gerson Nordlinger Child Welfare Leadership Award presented by the...
Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice; An Interview with Jeremy Kohomban, Ph.D., President and CEO of Children’s Village

A Color-coded Glimpse into the Globe's Emotionality

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer Infographics, graphs, pie charts; we all love a good graphic representation of information. It helps many process details in these times of information overload. The Washington Post, thanks to the Gallup polling firm, has posted a color-coded map of...
A Color-coded Glimpse into the Globe"s Emotionality

Experimenting with Social Norms

When browsing through my newsfeed on Facebook, I came across a very inspiring and heart wrenching story posted on Have A Gay Day’s Facebook fan page. The page is “Founded on the thought of Equality and N0 H8. Supporting Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Straight and anything else...
Experimenting with Social Norms

Professional vs. Employer Values on Grief/Grieving and Death/Dying

by Vikki Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer I am currently reading a book titled, “Comfort’ by Ann Hood. Yes, I read a lot and as this is an area of interest for me….. this book is about a mother who loses her daughter to a virulent version of strep at age 5. The little...
Professional vs. Employer Values on Grief/Grieving and Death/Dying

Wisdom to be Gained from Morrie......

by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer I am reading yet another wonderful book. Morrie Schwartz sheds some wisdom on what it is like to be diagnosed with an incurable degenerative disease, (ALS) amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or Lou Gehrig’s disease. Imagine a disease that robs you...
Wisdom to be Gained from Morrie......

What is the meaning of "privacy" in the 21st Century?

Recently, I came across an article written by Geoffrey A. Fowler, a writer from The Wall Street Journal, named “When the most personal secrets get outed on Facebook.” It describes the story of two college students from the University of Texas,  Boddi Duncan and Taylor McCormick,...
What is the meaning of "privacy" in the 21st Century?

Magnets as Safer More Effective Treatment to Severe, Persistent Depression?

Can magnets offer a promising depression treatment without potential adverse reactions of ECT? “There is a very close interrelationship between magnetism and electricity…the brain essentially is an electrical organ,” said Ken Melman, MD, a neuropsychiatrist at Swedish Neuroscience...
Magnets as Safer More Effective Treatment to Severe, Persistent Depression?

A Little Self Love Goes a Long Way

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer Some not-so surprising research points to the importance of choosing Self-Compassion over Self-Criticism, and refocussing our attention away from competition with others, in this article posted in Psychology Today: “Where self-criticism leaves...
A Little Self Love Goes a Long Way

Politics and Social Work - Why Social Workers Need to Focus More on Policy

It occurred to me recently that it might not be obvious why SJS focuses more on politics rather than social work content. SJS is not against social work content, we think it is important and try to work it in as much as possible. I come from a point of view that ask what isn’t social...
Politics and Social Work - Why Social Workers Need to Focus More on Policy

Needed Services for Older Adults

  by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer I would love to get a discussion going regarding the needed services for older adults/seniors. No matter what country or community you live in, there are services lacking. Baby-Boomers will enter the 65+age bracket at an alarming rate...
Needed Services for Older Adults

Tax Bubbles and Fiscal Cliffs

NY Times blogger Nate Silver is brilliant, his blog FiveThirtyEight should be required reading for voters. I learn more from this column than I did in my 4 years of pursuing a Political Science minor in college. The fiscal cliff continue to loom tall over the country. Mr. Silver explains a...
Tax Bubbles and Fiscal Cliffs

Give Back this #GivingTuesday

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer The giving season is upon us, and #GivingTuesday wants to change the way we think about the holiday season. Here is what their Mission Statement has to say about the initiative: “#GivingTuesday™ is a campaign to create a national day of...
Give Back this #GivingTuesday

We Can't Save Everyone, But What Can We Do?

Long after we lose count of our good deeds, what remains with us is often a list of those we couldn’t save.  Our “failings” can haunt us, a reminder of our fallible nature.  We don’t  give ourselves the benefit of the doubt, about the care taken to try, simply try to save it. Surely...
We Can"t Save Everyone, But What Can We Do?

Poetry in Social Work

by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer Poetry—- a form of creativity, but it serves another purpose as well. Poetry, like music, is an outlet for feelings and emotions. It is a way to get a point across in a very creative way. I would like to share some poetry that has had an...
Poetry in Social Work

We All Need a Little Something To De-Stress

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer Let’s get personal. As an engaged American in my late 20s I stress a lot about my upcoming wedding, job situation and well, basically, everything. I often find that many of the techniques people I know suggest for de-stressing now a days revolve...
We All Need a Little Something To De-Stress

The Storm - A Poem

Thought this might be nice to share for people who are having a rough time of things. The Storm By Crystal Hill A Storm Barrels through, the seas swell. The whole world has become rage. Everything is unfamiliar. No land, no light, no harbor. It is not always easy to keep composure. So many...
The Storm - A Poem

New Alzheimer's Treatment Could Slow Decline

The progress of Alzheimer’s can be slowed with a regimen of immunosuppressants.  By utilizing this treatment, the tell-tale decline in cognitive functioning may be able to hold off a while longer by suppressing compounds associated with the disease.  For those who hear the word...
New Alzheimer"s Treatment Could Slow Decline

Electroshock Therapy

Through the years, this topic has received much bad press. Research seems mixed.  From a conglomerate of what I have read, I might be inclined to go with this type of intervention under certain conditions.  Supposedly, with well-defined parameters< in severe cases of depression it...
Electroshock Therapy

National Geographic's Life In A Day

Last night I had the opportunity to watch National Geographic’s documentary Life In A Day and it was a great way to finish the Thanksgiving weekend. In 2010, National Geographic put out a request for individuals to film their lives on the day of July 24th 2010. As a part of this request,...
National Geographic"s Life In A Day

Why Social Work?

by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer If you are reading this, I am making the assumption that you are already a BSW/MSW or you are a student to become one. Why have you chosen the field of social work? What is the draw besides the obvious connection to people, to want to help, to...
Why Social Work?

New Egyptian President Mohammed Mursi's Statements spark Renewed Conflicts

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer President Mohammed Mursi, new president of Egypt and past leading member of the Muslim Brotherhood, has declared that the courts he has helped reestablish after the Arab Spring Egyptian protests cannot overturn any presidential decrees he has...
New Egyptian President Mohammed Mursi"s Statements spark Renewed Conflicts

The Benefits to Memories

  by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer Every once in a while we read a book that has an impact on us. The book I just finished reading, ‘The Gift of Rain’ by Tan Twan Eng was such a book. A boy of mixed European and Chinese heritage is trained by a sensei of Japanese...
The Benefits to Memories

Can ADHD Medication decrease Recidivism and Crime Rates?

A recent Swedish study suggests that affordable and easy access to ADHD medications can decrease not only  recidivism of individuals diagnosed with ADHD or similar conditions, but also potentially crime rates. Based on symptoms of impulsiveness, hyperactivity, and difficulty concentrating...
Can ADHD Medication decrease Recidivism and Crime Rates?

'Mindsight' and Personal Transformation

by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer I am currently reading the book ‘Mindsight’ by Daniel J. Siegel, MD who is a clinical professor of psychiatry at UCLA School of Medicine and co-director of the UCLA Mindful Awareness Research Center. The book focuses on the...
"Mindsight" and Personal Transformation

Social Work Should Be The Bridge That Connects Humanity

The Social Work profession extends beyond national borders; the more we learn about social workers from other nations, the more it will become  clear that we are all fighting the same battle. How do we help those who cannot rise above the system in which they were born? Zimbabwe is having a...
Social Work Should Be The Bridge That Connects Humanity

$7 Million In Debt Eliminated By Occupy Movement

Occupy Wall Street took on a new role to the surprise of many who thought the movement had all but fizzled out.  “The People’s Bailout” was a festive benefit party put on to raise money in order to buy back debt.  “A bailout of the 99% by the 99%.”  Their plan was to raise money and...
$7 Million In Debt Eliminated By Occupy Movement

OxyContin and Canada

By Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer OxyContin seems to be the medication causing dilemmas here in Canada. The drug or medication has been authorized to be a generic and this has some people uncertain, scared, cautious. OxyContin is a painkiller and painkillers are...
OxyContin and Canada

United States Considers increasing Military Presence in the Mediterranean

Amid conflicts in Israel, Gaza, Syria, Libya, and Egypt the US Military is considering increasing Navy and Ship presence in the Mediterranean. This increase will extend the stay of several ships recently deployed to the area, as well as station four ships in Spain and four off the coast of...
United States Considers increasing Military Presence in the Mediterranean

Paralyzed Dogs Walk Again After Nose Cell Transplant

Pawaplegic pups now have a shot at running again as scientists successfully use nose cell transplants to reverse spinal cord injuries in our four legged friends. Nose cells in dogs continue to regenerate through their lives, so by injecting the refined cells into the site of injury, dogs will...
Paralyzed Dogs Walk Again After Nose Cell Transplant

South Africa: Bulldozers and Evictions In Lenasia

Gillian Shute shared the following story on SJS’s Facebook page. Please let us know what is going on in the world and we will be glad to post it! Being more informed of world events is the corner stone of social justice! People in Lenasia have been buying homes that were built illegally on...
South Africa: Bulldozers and Evictions In Lenasia

Thanksgiving and Native Americans

We want to take a second to wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving, even those who might not celebrate this most American of holidays. We do so keeping in mind the terrible costs payed by Native American’s. There is not a story of a people more tragic and deserving of acknowledgement. The...
Thanksgiving and Native Americans

Bus Bombing Brings Israel & Palestinians To Brink

By Courtney Kidd, LMSW SJS Staff Writer A bus bombing has brought the 8 day escalating conflict in the Middle East between Palestine and Israel to a tipping point.  Quelling what was hopeful truce talks and tentative peaceful relations from 2009, this bomb may prolong the deadly battles before...
Bus Bombing Brings Israel & Palestinians To Brink

Skills of Helping Professionals

by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer How were you educated at school whether undergraduate or graduate? Was it a ‘just the facts’ orientation or an empathic, client-centered model? Is there room for both? Sometimes we have to be stoic, impassive helping professionals,...
Skills of Helping Professionals

The Antidote to your Holiday Stress

Tomorrow marks the ‘official start’ of the holiday season in the United States with the celebration of Thanksgiving, despite the decorations having been on sale in stores since before Halloween. Tomorrow we will likely gather with friends and family to start off the month and a half...
The Antidote to your Holiday Stress

India Arrests 2 Woman For "Like" On Facebook

Oppression of woman is the oldest story in the world. Before we go condemning India for this ridiculous act, let’s not forget that GOP has also been waging it’s little war against woman right here. America is also not that far removed from a time when the size of a man’s...
India Arrests 2 Woman For "Like" On Facebook

Criticism: Something We Can Learn From

by Victoria Brewster, MSW – SJS Staff Writer I read an article in my local paper today on the topic of criticism and times we cannot deal with it.  Well, it could be our own fault. (The Montreal Gazette, QC, Canada) The paper gives the quote: “Criticism like rain, should be gentle...
Criticism: Something We Can Learn From

Social Work Training Program to Target Top UK Grauduates

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer Michael Grove, the UK’s Secretary of State for Education, has his eye on improving the field of social work in the United Kingdom. In an effort to encourage new graduates to join the profession, improve its status and the profession as a whole,...
Social Work Training Program to Target Top UK Grauduates

Constancy In The Face Of War

Constancy is my favorite word. If things go well, constancy; if thing go poorly constancy. The word is the cool lemonade of wisdom to the hot summer days of youth. Humanity is in its youth. The follies of war and hatred are youthful practices, only useful to those who think shadows lurk in the...
Constancy In The Face Of War

Submit Your Ideas To SJS

A reminder that SJS gladly accepts your blogs, news, and opinions for posting. The top navigation bar has a “submit” button for just that purpose. Nothing excites us more then the opinions of our readers and members. You can also register for your own user name using the...
Submit Your Ideas To SJS

Fiscal Cliff Optimist Translates Into Stock Gains

By Matthew Cohen SJS Staff Writer There continues to be optimism that Democrats and Republicans can do their jobs before the New Year. I say “do their jobs”, because making sure that the country is stable is their job. It a public trust that they will take the good fortune of all...
Fiscal Cliff Optimist Translates Into Stock Gains

Canadian Healthcare: Cancer Treatment

by Victoria Brewster, MSW - SJS Staff Writer One only has to follow the Canadian news, read the local paper or talk to health professionals, who will say Socialized Medicine or Medicare needs an overhaul. While there are many benefits to socialized medicine, basic coverage  check-ups, exams,...
Canadian Healthcare: Cancer Treatment

Britain Experiencing Food Recession

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer This BBC article is a prime example of the impacts that the economy has on food consumption, and as a result health. Austerity in Britain is altering the eating habits of thousands, causing a decrease in consumption of food in general as well as...
Britain Experiencing Food Recession

An Exemplary Leader, of the People by the People

By Michelle Sicignano, LMSW, SJS Staff Writer Choosing an austere lifestyle, much like the majority of the population he presides over, the President of Uruguay, Jose Mujica, is the “world’s poorest president.” Shunning a lifestyle of consumption, in favor of what he sees as real...
An Exemplary Leader, of the People by the People

Dems and GOP Working Together On Fiscal Cliff and Other Fairy Tales

With the holiday season drawing near, our wonderful elected officials sound almost optimistic at the prospect of bi-partisan support for legislation that would prevent the fiscal cliff from crippling the economy. This is certainly the time of year to believe in magic and fairy tales, so why...
Dems and GOP Working Together On Fiscal Cliff and Other Fairy Tales

Recap of a Workshop on NLP

By Victoria Brewster, MSW SJS Staff Writer I attended an all day workshop on NLP-Neurolinguistic Programming yesterday here in Montreal.  NLP at its most basic, is a form of Behavior Modification. It has been around since the 1970′s- think Fritz Perls, Milton H. Erickson, Virginia...
Recap of a Workshop on NLP

Israel Threatens To Widen Offensive Into Syria

Violence on the Israeli-Syrian border is escalating. Hamas continues to fire rockets into Israel; Israel is bombing Hamas. I could have written that 5,10,15,or 20 years ago it would hold true in some way or another. War always makes me sad. It is the most unreasonable of human responses to...
Israel Threatens To Widen Offensive Into Syria

At Least 70,000 in France Protest Against Gay and Lesbian Rights

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer The United States isn’t the only country struggling to offer more rights to Gay and Lesbian individuals. The French socialist government has recently approved a bill that would allow gay and lesbian couples to marry and adopt children, a bill...
At Least 70,000 in France Protest Against Gay and Lesbian Rights

'Pay it Forward' this Holiday Season

I loved the movie and the book, ‘Pay it Forward’, to think it took a child to start something amazing at his school. I also like Kevin Spacey as an actor and he played his role well.  As a continuation of my article on  ‘Compassion during the Holidays‘ , I would like...
"Pay it Forward" this Holiday Season

Hurricane Sandy Resources for Long Island

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer The storm might be over and the power might be back on, but for many the recovery process will be a long road. United Way and 211 Long Island has developed a resource guide and website dedicated to information on resources for Hurricane Recovery. This...
Hurricane Sandy Resources for Long Island

LBGTQ Voters Support Obama by 3 to 1 Margin

The Republican party is going to find it increasingly difficult to win elections when their policies alienate growing electoral demographics. This is aside from the mess that they made by attacking woman on their reproductive rights. Minority voters are y going to be the majority. Carrying the...
LBGTQ Voters Support Obama by 3 to 1 Margin

The Importance of Compassion During the Holiday Season

Ok, I will be first to bring up the upcoming holiday season which officially kicks of next Friday for ‘Black Friday’. The biggest shopping day of the year or at least that is what I remember when I worked in retail about 20 years ago…..  What I love about the holiday season is...
The Importance of Compassion During the Holiday Season

Gingrich On Super PACS's 'Fundamentally, Profoundly Wrong'

This article from Huffington Post really caught my eye. It’s not often I hear some sense from politicians when it concerns campaign finance and corporations. This is especially true of the GOP; hearing it from Newt Gingrich is a remarkable. There is no way for me to paraphrase this...
Gingrich On Super PACS"s "Fundamentally, Profoundly Wrong"

War Enters the Social Media Age

One need only to read any newspaper or news website to find that Israel and Gaza are at the brink of war after an air strike against Hamas leaders that killed one of the main leaders. Adding to the war in Syria this is not a pretty picture for the Middle East, or the world for that matter. But,...
War Enters the Social Media Age

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Ethics in Our Personal and Professional Lives

While reading the book, ‘Happiness’ by Matthieu Richard, chapter 22,  I came across some amazing information on Ethics as the’ Science of Happiness’. It discusses Buddhism and that ethics is not just ways of acting, but a way of being.  As humans we have evolved and...
Ethics in Our Personal and Professional Lives

Altruism and The Ego

I was struck by the story of the man who gave the a space heater to hurricane victims without power. The very people he helped had helped him many years before. It illustrates the concept of pay it forward so well, because the time between the help and the return was a large span of years....
Altruism and The Ego

Europeans Protest Austerity Measures and Rising Unemployment

By Georgianna Reilly, L.M.S.W. SJS Staff Writer America has it bad, this was made clear by both parties in the election. But, one needs to only look across the Atlantic Ocean to see that we could in fact be much worse off. According to BBC news the Eurozone (The 17-nation block that makes up...
Europeans Protest Austerity Measures and Rising Unemployment

Addressing the Public Obligation of a Public Utility

New York’s Attorney General, Eric Schneiderman,  opened an investigation and issued subpoenas to both LIPA, Long Island Power Authority and Con Ed,  Consolidated Edison, over the “utilities’ preparedness and response” to hurricane Sandy. “ New York Gov. Andrew...
Addressing the Public Obligation of a Public Utility

The Importance of Social Workers and other Helping Professionals Updating their 'Tool Kit'.

Every person, no matter what profession, needs to update their skills. You can be a social worker, lawyer, accountant for 5, 10, 15 years and things change during that time. We all need to update out ‘Tool Kit’ as I call it. While I received my MSW 15 years ago, I have never stopped...
The Importance of Social Workers and other Helping Professionals Updating their "Tool Kit".

Humans Aren't Getting Any Smarter

Anyone who saw Idiocracy might not be shocked to learn that the human species might be growing dumber, despite living in the most advanced time in history.  Some scientists credit this to a large number of mutations, which are declining cognition.  They propose that if we were to take an...
Humans Aren"t Getting Any Smarter

Aren't There More Pressing Problems Then A Sex Scandal?

Matters of national security are important, but an extramarital affair that “might” have been a matter of national security just doesn’t seem to justify the coverage it is getting. I believe that the national security issue is just an excuse for voyeurism, what gets people...
Aren"t There More Pressing Problems Then A Sex Scandal?

The Spoon Theory: An Explanation of Coping with Invisible Illness

Often as social workers we work with individuals who have invisible illnesses, who suffer from either physical or mental barriers that limit what they can get done on any given day. For many, that symptom of fatigue is a big factor. Whether it be a result of Fibromyalgia, Crohn’s Disease,...
The Spoon Theory: An Explanation of Coping with Invisible Illness

The Spoon Theory: An Explanation of Coping with Invisible Illness

Often as social workers we work with individuals who have invisible illnesses, who suffer from either physical or mental barriers that limit what they can get done on any given day. For many, that symptom of fatigue is a big factor. Whether it be a result of Fibromyalgia, Crohn’s Disease,...
The Spoon Theory: An Explanation of Coping with Invisible Illness

Post Election Poll Numbers On The Fiscal Cliff

The “fiscal cliff” has embedded itself in the American collective consciousness. So what is the fiscal cliff? About.com says: ‘“Fiscal cliff” is the popular shorthand term used to describe the conundrum that the U.S. government will face at the end of 2012, when the terms...
Post Election Poll Numbers On The Fiscal Cliff

Honouring The Memory Of One Who Has Died

I am curious as to how society in general, and this includes families, friends, colleagues and professionals, honor the memory of one who has died? Every culture, ethnicity and religion have different rituals or traditions to honor the memory of one who has died. In Judaism, on the annual...
Honouring The Memory Of One Who Has Died

Coffee Is The New Endangered Species

I finally know a way to convince everyone on any side of the debate that we, as a society must act on global warming.  A new study shows how climate change could effectively wipe out coffee by 2080.  Where will we get life’s sweet sweet nectar if that happens?  I for one will take a stand,...
Coffee Is The New Endangered Species

Where's Your Funnybone?

Does everyone have a sense of humor? The obvious answer is no, we all know someone who just doesn’t seem to have a humerus bone(get it?) in their body. The odd thing is, if they’re asked, I don’t think any of them would say they don’t enjoy humor.  Yet, half my life is spent feeling the...
Where"s Your Funnybone?

Five Ways to Keep your Piece of Mind, and Mind your Emotions

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer With the holiday season fast approaching (one week until Thanksgiving? I must have missed something…) tempers and emotions are likely on edge. We have so much to attend to during the holidays while still maintaining our normal schedules, so of...
Five Ways to Keep your Piece of Mind, and Mind your Emotions

Early Life Stress Affects Brain Development and Shows Lasting Impact

“High levels of family stress in infancy are linked to differences in everyday brain function and anxiety in teenage girls, according to new results of a long-running population study by University of Wisconsin-Madison scientists.” Early life stress impacts cortisol levels and affects brain...
Early Life Stress Affects Brain Development and Shows Lasting Impact

High Res Maps Break Down Election

Wired has a great video on the election results.    
High Res Maps Break Down Election

High Res Maps Break Down Election

Wired has a great breakdown of the geographic dynamics that contributed to election. [brightcove vid=1959331341001&exp3=1813626064&surl=http://c.brightcove.com/services&pubid=1564549380&pk=AQ~~,AAAAAF1BIQQ~,g5cZB_aGkYZXG-DCZXT7a-c4jcGaSdDQ&w=404&h=436]
High Res Maps Break Down Election

Pinocchio and The Ghost

The waves carry us endlessly, each day we crash to the shore, each morning we wake from sleep to find ourselves a drift on the vast ocean. We are always brought home. The traps are intricate. My hat goes off to all human beings, even the worst of us, living in this way is not an easy thing....
Pinocchio and The Ghost

We The People Receives Petitions For Texas and Louisiana To Secede From Union

We The People, the official website for the Obama administration has been the target with petitions for State secession.  Actually there were more States then Texas and Louisiana but there is little doubt that all the states are “red”. None of the petitions mentioned the...
We The People Receives Petitions For Texas and Louisiana To Secede From Union

Prime Minister Will Not Allow Anyone To Fire on Israeli Citizens

It’s a story as old as The Bible. Tensions are mounting again in the Middle East. Syrian violence is spilling into the Syrian-Israeli border. The Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu issued a clear statement on the new border aggression. “Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin...
Prime Minister Will Not Allow Anyone To Fire on Israeli Citizens

Advice For Dealing With The Death of a Client or Patient

It is always hard as a professional to lose a client because of death. While death is a fact of life, part of the life cycle; remember that to be born, one must die, and it is never easy. I work with seniors and older/adults and this is something that I face all the time as do many in the...
Advice For Dealing With The Death of a Client or Patient

For Healthy Social Development, Timing is Crucial

Without appropriate social interaction, myelin production has been shown to decrease. Decreases in myelination may lead to permanent social and cognitive deficits. Timing seems to play a pivotal function.  Recovery at some points has been shown possible, however it has also been shown that...
For Healthy Social Development, Timing is Crucial

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'The Conversation'

As professionals we are sometimes the ones to lead the conversation with clients, patients and their families. This is not the conversation you would have with your kids about the ‘birds and bees’, but another conversation that is really meant for and between adults. This does not mean that...
"The Conversation"

The Elephant’s Example and Solutions For Peace

I don’t have answers. The solutions to the world’s problems won’t come from a grand vision, but from a plodding commitment to goodness. I remember reading a quote in a Zen Buddhist book that said something along the line of, “Our way is to be like an elephant”....
The Elephant’s Example and Solutions For Peace

The Elephant's Example and Solutions For Peace

I don’t have answers. The solutions to the world’s problems won’t come from a grand vision, but from a plodding commitment to goodness. I remember reading a quote in a Zen Buddhist book that said something along the line of, “Our way is to be like an elephant”....
The Elephant"s Example and Solutions For Peace

Your Brain on Politics

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer So the election is over and Obama has another four years in office. Social Media sites are a flutter with happy Democrats and raging Republicans, but what does all of this say about our brains as a nation, as competing political parties, and as...
Your Brain on Politics

Is The U.S. Getting A 51st State?

Puerto Rico has applied to become America’s 51st state which will be the first time since 1959 that the United States might acquire another state to the union. The road to statehood is not guaranteed, needing approval from Congress, and many are wondering what this would mean for the...
Is The U.S. Getting A 51st State?

Where Do We Go From Here

America is a mess. I don’t know how anyone could come away from the election not believing so. I’m having a hard time deciding if this is still one nation united. The country is as far away from a middle ground as heaven and hell. They two dominant political views are complete...
Where Do We Go From Here

Disorganization Slowing Repairs on Long Island

by Michelle Sicignano, LMSW, SJS Staff Writer   I have been informed that out of town work crews all over Long  Island have been housed in public parks, such as Sunken Meadow, and Bethpage, in large open spaces, often near water, where it is preferable for them to sleep in their trucks...
Disorganization Slowing Repairs on Long Island

Military Social Worker KIA: A Veteran’s Day Rememberence

As we enter into this holiday weekend, let’s remember what Veteran’s day is celebrating.  We are honored by the service and sacrifice our nation’s military provide for us.  Those who have served our great nation have the continuing respect and gratitude from our members here. We offer...
Military Social Worker KIA: A Veteran’s Day Rememberence

To Make a Difference in the World and In The Helping Professions

I just finished watching a show on Cinemoi titled: ‘Earth From Above’ with Yann Arthus Bertrand. He travels the world to point out the consumption that exist. How products are made, where the material comes from, and the carbon foot print left behind. The world at 6.5 billion people...
To Make a Difference in the World and In The Helping Professions

Recession Cuts Could Cause Epidemic

A new worry in the current economic crisis; epidemic outbreaks.  Due to severe cut backs in state and federal agencies, we might be at risk for a rise in disease and epidemic outbreaks.  Budget cuts have made many agencies drop workers, services that they offer and even limit vaccinations....
Recession Cuts Could Cause Epidemic

People Outside Polling Sites Cannot Ask for I.D. in Pennsylvania

Nothing brings out the ugliness of a person than election day. I never understood the anger, as if ones political beliefs were a part of the body. Voting intimidation is as old as America. A judge today has stopped people from asking voters for I.D. in Pennsylvania,which is one of nine states...
People Outside Polling Sites Cannot Ask for I.D. in Pennsylvania

Life Without Political Parties. What Would Happen?

I have a great idea for the next election.  Abolish the conventional parties and allow candidates to run based on their principles and agenda.  Then see who people would really vote for if they didn’t have a party telling them who has the better ideas.  You see, this would be brilliant...
Life Without Political Parties. What Would Happen?

Fighting Sex Trafficking from the Front Lines: The People Who Inspire Series: Sarah Elizabeth Pahman

By Relando Thompkins Guest Blogger Notes from an Aspiring Humanitarian‘s “The People Who Inspire series” highlights individuals from a variety of backgrounds and occupations who are seeking to impact the lives of others in a positive way. Through Truth-Telling: the honest...
Fighting Sex Trafficking from the Front Lines: The People Who Inspire Series: Sarah Elizabeth Pahman

The Changing Face of Political Officials

This election seemed like a turning point to me, and was the start of many new beginnings. Many have focused on the issues that were up for vote in this past election, and those resolutions which passed such as legalizing marijuana in two states. But what about the faces of politics itself? One...
The Changing Face of Political Officials

NYT Blogger Predicts Every State Outcome For POTUS election

Yes, I was skeptical just as you are! Nate Silver is a blogger for the NYT/FiveThirtyEight section. Apparently he the political world has been critical of  the statistical methods used to predict the election. The criticism was not levied by obscure organizations, they include MSNBC, the...
NYT Blogger Predicts Every State Outcome For POTUS election

A Petition to Hold LIPA Accountable for a Poor Response to Hurricane Sandy

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer After ten straight days of no power or heat I am back on, and very thankful for that fact. However, many in the tri-state area are still in the dark (literally). Billions of dollars of food have been lost, as well as business hours and schooling hours....
A Petition to Hold LIPA Accountable for a Poor Response to Hurricane Sandy

Mending Rifts With Friends And Family

I just finished watching the Disney movie ‘Brave’ with my kids and I have to say it is one of the better Disney movies. Action, female role models and of course a point behind the story which is of course intended for the adults who watch with their kids. Think ‘Shrek’...
Mending Rifts With Friends And Family

New Hampshire: The First State with an All Female Delegation

By Georgianna Reilly, LMSW SJS Staff Writer In continuation of several of my lastest posts regarding New Hampshire and the election I wanted to share some further news. It seems the New Hampshire is the first state to be entirely represented by female delegates. This is big news for women in...
New Hampshire: The First State with an All Female Delegation

NYT Blogger Predicts Every State Outcome For POTUS election

Yes, I was skeptical just as you are! Nate Silver is a blogger for the NYT/FiveThirtyEight section. Apparently he the political world has been critical of  the statistical methods used to predict the election. The criticism was not levied by obscure organizations, they include MSNBC, the...
NYT Blogger Predicts Every State Outcome For POTUS election

Test Post from Social Justice Solutions - Social Work and Social Justice News and Blogs

Test Post from Social Justice Solutions - Social Work and Social Justice News and Blogs http://www.socialjusticesolutions.org