NY Nurse: June 2022

The events of the last two-and-a-half years have sparked a much-needed fire in the United States. In the wake of the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and many other Black and indigenous people of color, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting displays of anti-Asian hate, the dark underbelly of the United States has been undeniably exposed: systemic racism and prejudice. Of course, the prejudice not only extends to racial and ethnic minorities but also to the LGBTQIA+ community, the unhoused and persons of lower socioeconomic status.

Over 50 members registered for a week of federal lobby visits, in conjunction with National Nurses United (NNU). This was an opportunity to partner with NNU and advocate for resources and infrastructure that would protect and expand access to healthcare. Given that we are stronger together than alone, the joint effort allowed NYSNA a bigger voice in advocating for ourselves, our patients, and our communities.

On the Importance of Interdependence

If we have learned anything this year, it is that we are all we have. By we, I mean nurses. By we, I’m referring to our union siblings. Without a voice on the job — which only comes when the workplace is unionized — nurses have little hope for thriving now and in the future.

I do not need to tell you that the past few weeks have been horrific. Many of us have been completely shattered following the tragedy in Buffalo, New York, and Uvalde, Texas. I realize that the tragedies of the past few weeks compound the personal struggles some may be enduring.