Introduction
Critical community practice is a transformative approach to social work that challenges systemic oppression and empowers marginalized groups. Unlike traditional methods, it integrates activism, education, and grassroots organizing to drive structural change.
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This blog post covers:
Western models of critical practice (Butcher, Dominelli).
Three phases of critical practice in India.
Case studies like the Katkari tribal movement and the Right to Pee campaign.
Whether you're a social worker, NGO professional, or student, these insights offer actionable strategies for equitable community development.
Western Models of Critical Community Practice
1. Anti-Oppressive Social Work (Lena Dominelli, 2002)
Focuses on identity, solidarity, and global citizenship.
Politicizes social work by challenging welfare systems.
2. Butcher’s Critical Practice Model (2007)
A three-part framework for transformative action:
Action Learning: Continuous reflection and adaptation.
Multi-Level Change: Addresses policies, programs, and paradigms.
"Permanent White Water": Embraces chaotic, rapid social change.
Key Influences:
Freire’s dialogue-based education.
Marxist critiques of welfare capitalism.
Feminist collaborative methods.
Critical Community Practice in India: Three Phases
Phase 1: Deepening Democracy (1970s–1980s)
Non-party political organizations (e.g., Katkari tribal sanghatans).
Rights-based advocacy (land, wages, education).
Case Study: Katkari Tribal Movement (Raigad, Maharashtra)
Oppression: Exploitative labor, landlessness, alcoholism.
Interventions:
Literacy programs.
Collective bargaining for fair wages.
Cultural revival through dances and festivals.
Phase 2: Challenging NGO-ization (1990s–2000s)
Grassroots women’s collectives (e.g., SHGs + panchayat leadership).
Network-based advocacy (e.g., Resource Support Centre for Development).
Case Study: Women in Local Governance
Challenge: Patriarchal resistance to female sarpanches.
Solutions:
Training for elected women.
Campaigns for symbolic equality (e.g., flag-hoisting rights).
Phase 3: Contemporary Struggles (Post-2000s)
Cultural activism (e.g., Right to Pee campaign).
Digital advocacy (social media, audits).
Case Study: Right to Pee (Mumbai)
Issue: Gender-biased public toilets.
Tactics:
Social audits of BMC toilets.
Media campaigns + alliances with feminist groups.
Key Lessons for Practitioners
1. Power Analysis is Essential
Identify oppressors (e.g., landlords, corrupt officials).
Map systemic biases (e.g., caste, gender).
2. Balance "Sangharsh" (Struggle) and "Nirman" (Construction)
Protest unfair policies.
Build alternatives (e.g., model toilets, schools).
3. Center Marginalized Voices
Use Freirean conscientization methods.
Foster leadership within communities (not just NGO-led).
Conclusion
Critical community practice bridges theory and action, from Freire’s pedagogy to India’s Katkari and Right to Pee movements. Its core lesson: Sustainable change requires both resistance and rebuilding.
FAQ
🔹 Social Casework – Learn client-centered intervention techniques.
🔹 Social Group Work – Strategies for effective group facilitation.
🔹 Community Organization – Methods for empowering communities.
