Inconvenient Truth: Challenges to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Social Work Education and Practice.

This article examines systemic barriers to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) faced by ethnically diverse social workers in Hong Kong, primarily from South Asian backgrounds, within social work education and frontline practice. Using qualitative focus group data and applying DEI alongside critical race theory (CRT) frameworks, the study reveals challenges at individual, interpersonal, and organizational levels, including language barriers, cultural biases, limited multicultural curriculum, and inequitable employment opportunities. The findings highlight how Hong Kong's colonial legacy and racial hierarchies privilege Western and Chinese cultures, marginalizing ethnic minorities and impeding genuine inclusion despite visible diversity. The article concludes with recommendations for comprehensive DEI policies, confronting systemic racism, broadening access to social work roles, and amplifying marginalized voices to foster a more equitable and inclusive social work profession in Hong Kong.