Jack Whitney: The importance of representation
Jack Whitney is a social worker working with children and their families, as well as currently serving as NSW President of the Australian Association of Social Workers - the peak body for social workers in Australia. He is a local activist and community leader in LGBTIQ+ affairs. He also sits on the board of Youth Action NSW and the New South Wales Council of Social Service, where he provides oversight and governance for the two peak bodies for young people and community services in NSW.
Currently, Jack is running for the Balmain Ward of the Inner West Council.
“Representation matters. Put your hand up. Run for something. Throw your hat in the ring. As a generation that grew up with the internet and social media, we have at all times been part of something bigger than ourselves, but we at times lacked the deep and genuine connection of knowing our neighbor and community.”
What inspired you to run for election this year?
As a social worker I’ve seen first hand the impacts of what good and bad government can look like, the impacts of poverty and the importance of access to services from local community facilities, healthcare to education.
I am passionate about representation and giving a voice to the next generation. This includes all levels of government like local government. What we do locally has a direct impact on the lives of residents day in, day out. The last 18 months I’ve particularly seen young people struggle - from unemployment, housing affordability, disruption to education, impacts of social isolation during a time that should be for exploration and excitement, and mental health impacts of COVID19.
What are the key causes and impact areas you are championing?
I am standing for a council that will deliver the basics and punch above its weight. This includes waste management and potholes to delivering critical local infrastructure projects. I am standing for a council that is a leader in innovation and inclusion. This includes investing in innovative ways to reduce emissions, to improving gender equality, establishing a Centre for the Arts and a LGBTIQ+ Pride Centre.
What is your message to other young people who may have thought about running too?
Representation matters. Put your hand up. Run for something. Throw your hat in the ring. As a generation that grew up with the internet and social media, we have at all times been part of something bigger than ourselves, but we at times lacked the deep and genuine connection of knowing our neighbor and community. That’s why I have always volunteered and been involved in community groups and organisations. Running for politics and helping your community on the ground is a great way to be part of a community and build deep connections locally.
Jack Whitney is a candidate for the Balmain Ward of the Inner West Council. You can follow Jack’s campaign here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jackwhitneyforbalmain/
Instagram: @jackwhitney4balmain
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackwhitneyprofile
