Nursing report calls to end anti-Black racism and discrimination within the profession

Toronto, Feb. 8, 2022. In a groundbreaking report released today, the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario’s (RNAO) Black Nurses Task Force (BNTF) unveiled recommendations to tackle structural racism within nursing organizations, regulatory bodies, associations and the broader health system.

Honouring Black History Month 2022

RNAO recognizes the continued importance of sharing stories and perspectives from the Black community and is celebrating Black History Month in February. This past year, RNAO has remained dedicated to its advocacy and work to bring awareness to and end anti-Black racism and discrimination, especially in the nursing profession. In partnership with its members, RNAO has made progress in addressing the systemic racism within nursing, as well as all health-care sectors and academic settings.

RNAO’s continuing media profile: The December 2021 report

In December 2021, RNAO spoke to the media about several prominent, timely issues including the ongoing nursing shortage, Bill 124 and booster vaccines. We also commented on the Ontario government’s announcements prior to the holidays, including changes to capacity limits, testing requirements and reporting of cases.

A message as we begin 2022 amid a fifth wave

As we begin a new year, 2022, amid another very challenging wave – the fifth one -- I want to thank each health care worker for the work you do. Our nursing colleagues are stretched beyond imagination with unattainable workloads and an unjust Bill 124 undermining their unparalleled contribution to Ontario’s health-care system. Please know that RNAO will stand by you, with you and for you until this government acts!

RNAO addresses nursing crisis, Omicrom-led wave and preventing health-system collapse

Three RNAO media releases during the last week addressed the current pandemic context in Ontario and the responses from government. 1. RNAO’s media conference - Nursing crisis risks patient safety and health of Ontarians. 2. Response to the Ontario government Dec. 15 announcement - RNAO welcomes plan to move up eligibility dates for third doses; urges additional public health measures. 3. Response to Ontario public health measures announced Dec. 17 - RNAO says government’s new measures essential but not enough to blunt Omicron’s force.

Repeal Bill 124 – RNAO asks for pledge of support from Members of the Provincial Parliament

Ontario is in a nursing human resource crisis that has been made worse by Bill 124 and the COVID-19 pandemic. RNAO issued a call on December 7 to all Ontario MPPs: #StandWithNurses by demanding Bill 124 be repealed. As of now, ALL MPPs from the three opposition parties have signed the pledge. None from the PC Party and none of the independent MPPs have signed.