Are you ready to sit down and have a real open and honest conversation about diversity, equity, and inclusion? Are you uncomfortable with some of your own feelings about DEI or become squeamish when engaged in a DEI conversation? Do you desire a safe space to talk about these feelings? Guess what, you’ve come to the right place! In my conversations with NASN members over the years, especially those of color, I noted various concerns with feeling welcomed, embraced, included, and offered the same consideration in professional growth opportunities within NASN.
Conversations with some members suggest they are not heard, acknowledged, or recognized even though they possess the same if not more credentials or experiences when seeking leadership opportunities within NASN or their respective State affiliates. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are hallmarks of our society. To celebrate this diversity, and cultivate harmony and respect for all people, school nurses must nurture equality and inclusion within the work environment, classroom as well as in our professional organizations.
School nurses enter classrooms, boardrooms, and meeting rooms carrying an assortment of beliefs and practices. These may include racial and cultural prejudices adopted from our neighborhoods, colleagues, and our families. We can help one another overcome prejudice and racial discord by advocating for positive behaviors among ourselves, staff, and students. By fostering a sense of belonging, and instilling respect for all people we model behaviors that encourage and inspire those we come in contact with. We bring out the best in people when we bring out the best in ourselves. Diversity, equity, and inclusion plays a pivotal role in promoting professional and personal growth, enhancing implications for school nursing practice, as well as fostering a rich embracing inclusive culture within our schools and professional organizations.
By sharing valuable insights, best practices, and kind words, these tools empower us to implement effective DEI strategies that create positive change in all we do and stand for as school nurses. Are you interested in taking a deeper dive to learn more about DEI? I look forward to seeing you at my Breakout Session Friday June 28th 4:00-5:15 PM, It's Time for the Talk: A Real Conversation About Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as well as my second DEI Focus Group in the process of establishing a NASN Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Special Interest Group (DEI SIG) Saturday June 29th 3:00-4:30 PM. Come ready to network, connect, and engage in meaningful conversations that are sure to uplift and pique your interest. Be well, and looking forward to seeing you soon!