Happy Black History month!
This is a time to remember and celebrate our history and cultures.
We hope that you have been able to participate in the activities this month in your communities.
This year, we are celebrating the release of the Black Nurses Task Force (BNTF) report (https://rnao.ca/in-focus/black-nurses-and-rnao#BNTF-report).
Many of you will not be surprised by the results from the BNTF report, and hopefully will agree with the recommendations. The task force will continue to serve as advisers to the RNAO in this new capacity.
Sincere thanks to those who participated in the survey by sharing their experiences of nursing in Ontario.
Thanks to BNTF members and the RNAO for amplifying Black nurses’ voices and for advocating for respect for Black nurses in academia and
workplace settings as well as leadership roles.
We share a history of violence and abuse. As we come together, sharing our experiences and healing, we hope to continue to dismantle anti-black racism and discrimination against our persons. We hope to build positive and supportive relationship with allies, recognising that we cannot change our systems alone. Happy Black History Month to our dear allies.
Please visit the Black Nurses Leading Change page (https://chapters-igs.rnao.ca/interestgroup/73/about) on the RNAO’s website to stay informed and involved, and to see what we are up to.
As you know, we are a new interest group. Moving forward, we hope to be more engaged with you. If you have any ideas or thoughts about what you would like to see, please feel free to reach out to us.
This month, we are collaborating with Durham’s chapter to host Dr. Angela Cooper Brathwaite for an evening of learning. Dr. Cooper Brathwaite will share research findings and lived experiences of Black nurses. Dr. Cooper Brathwaite is a very engaging and informative speaker. I am sure everyone who attends will have an enjoyable experience, and takeaways that will make them glad they attended this event.
Cheers to past, present and future Black nurses leading change at home and globally.
Yours in solidarity,
BNLC