Institutions

Spurred by the social justice movements in 2020, nursing associations took decisive action to find places in their history where they may have intentionally or unintentionally harmed nurses and perpetuated systemic racism, even as far back as formation. Chief among them is the American Nursing Association, which established the National Commission to Address Racism in Nursing in 2021, alongside the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA), National Coalition of Ethnic Minority Nurse Associations (NCEMNA), and National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN). It’s a substantial step in the right direction for the nursing profession and nurses of color. But for many, it begs the question: “what took so long?”

Further reconciliation efforts include organizations conducting surveys to identify pervasive biases, a definitive Racial Reckoning statement from the ANA, investigating the problematic histories of and role of lauded nurses like Florence Nightingale and Mary Breckinridge in nursing education, and more. These initiatives are pivotal in dismantling institutional racism and fostering more inclusive healthcare environments.

Nursing is not immune to the entrenched hierarchy, patriarchy, and discrimination prevalent within the field. Much like the unfortunate reality of nurses “eating their young,” gatekeepers within healthcare perpetuate structures that inhibit diversity, prevent growth, and perpetuate biases. Efforts to diversify nursing, both demographically and in leadership roles, are essential to dismantling these barriers and fostering a more equitable profession.

Confronting racism within nursing and healthcare demands collective action and introspection. By delving into the rich history of nursing associations and related institutions, addressing systemic biases through research, and challenging entrenched hierarchies, nurses can jointly forge a path toward a more just and inclusive future for healthcare.

Moving nursing forward requires an honest and earnest acknowledgment of past harms. As nursing associations continue to evolve and adapt to the changing dynamics of healthcare, they must not waver in their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. By leveraging their collective influence and resources, from allyship to political influence, nursing associations can create transformative change, ensuring that nurses of all backgrounds can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of healthcare.