Language is never neutral. The words we use in child welfare shape how families are seen, how children are treated, and how communities experience the system. Too often, deficit-based language—rooted in colonial, Eurocentric frameworks—reinforces stigma, mistrust, and institutional and epistemic violence. Even the terms “child welfare system” and “child protective services” are being replaced by family policing system and family regulation system, which are considered by a growing number of people to be a more honest and accurate representation of the reality of these systems.

This workshop invites participants to critically explore how child welfare discourses impact families and practitioners alike. We will begin with an introduction to the theories that highlight how language contributes to deficit-based thinking and systemic harm. From there, we will engage in interactive discussions where participants can reflect on and share the terms they feel are most problematic in everyday practice.

Together, we will then move into dialogue on solutions: how can we shift away from harmful discourses and toward strengths-based, relational, and community-centered approaches? The session will conclude by identifying concrete actions participants can take in their professional and community contexts to challenge harmful language and reimagine more compassionate, justice-oriented practices.

Join us in unpacking the hidden harms—and in co-creating new possibilities for language, practice, and justice.

Register on EventBrite.