RNAO launched in June its Anti-Black Nursing Task Force, currently co-chaired by Immediate Past President Dr. Angela Cooper Brathwaite and NP member Corsita Garraway. In the following article they update on the origins and plans for the Task Force.

This is a question I have often asked from government officials. Following recent consultations, we are told a plan is on its way, soon to be released. The problem is, the full trust that nurses had at the outset of the first wave of COVID-19 was eroded by the anguish we, and other stakeholders, experienced as we moved for months at a snail’s pace to respond to emerging needs. This is why, as the CEO of the largest professional association in Ontario, and as an engaged leader, I feel it is my responsibility to share our thoughts and invite feedback.

RNAO issued on May 3 a statement on anti-Black racism, here, and on June 15 organized a webinar on the topic: Let's Talk About Racism.

In honour of Pride month, RNAO and its interest group the Rainbow Nursing Interest Group (RNIG) continued to speak out against discrimination and social exclusion based on sexual orientation and gender identity. We remained committed to celebrating diversity, inclusivity and equality.