by G. Rumay Alexander , EdD, RN, FAAN, and Beverly Malone, PhD, RN, FAAN
(NAPSI)—As the world reacts with shock and horror at mass shootings in the U.S., it is important that we as nurses and nurse educators reaffirm our core values and dedicate ourselves to the essential role we play in creating and sustaining a culture of civility, wherever we work and interact with others.
As representatives of the National League for Nursing, we believe we speak for our members in calling for an end to name-calling and an emphasis on thoughtful dialogue and courageous conversation.
As well, we believe it is essential to address issues related to gun ownership in the United States. This past February, the National League for Nursing joined with 166 national, state, and local medical, public health, and research organizations in asking Congress to provide funding for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to conduct public health research into firearm morbidity and mortality prevention. We emphasized that the use of firearms is a public health issue and must be addressed as such, noting that with rigorous research, it is possible to “accurately quantify and describe the facets of an issue and identify opportunities for reducing its related morbidity and mortality.”
As we consider the National League for Nursing’s core values, let us reflect especially on the value of diversity and inclusiveness, which encompasses respect for all persons and celebrates the richness of every individual, irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, physical abilities, and religious and political beliefs or other ideologies. An appreciation for the value of diversity is essential for achieving an inclusive and civil society. We all have a role to play in helping to make that happen.
G. Rumay Alexander is NLN past-president and professor and former associate vice chancellor/chief diversity officer of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Beverly Malone is NLN CEO.