# Social work professionalization in Mexico > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/social-work-professionalization-in-mexico > Updated: 2026-08-21T22:24:58.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2. In Mexico, efforts to professionalize and recognize the role of social workers in public health have gained momentum through legislative and academic channels. Initially, Valeria Cruz Flores, President of the Health Commission of the Mexico City Congress, advocated for the increased visibility of social workers during an international congress. She described the profession as a “strategic profession for transforming public health institutions” and called for policies to combat inequality and healthcare barriers. Following this, the importance of the field was further highlighted during a conference at UNAM, where researchers emphasized the need to address mental health and rising anxiety through a social lens. Additionally, the State Health Secretariat in Querétaro recognized social workers for their role in patient orientation and treatment continuity. This period also saw the official declaration of August 21 as National Social Work Day by the Mexican Chamber of Deputies and the Senate. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-21: Social work professionals highlighted for mental health and patient support roles Experts and health officials in Mexico emphasize the critical role of social work in addressing mental health and supporting patient care within the healthcare system. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/social-work-professionals-highlighted-for-mental-health-and-patient-support-roles ### 2026-08-12: Valeria Cruz calls for professionalization of social work in Mexico City Mexico City legislator Valeria Cruz Flores called for the professionalization and institutional recognition of social workers to help reduce healthcare inequalities and poverty. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/valeria-cruz-calls-for-professionalization-of-social-work-in-mexico-city --- Cite as: Social work professionalization in Mexico. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/social-work-professionalization-in-mexico