Press Release
June 4, 2020
All Lives will Matter Only when
African-American Lives Matter
As an organization that represents students from multiple backgrounds and cultures the National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA) acknowledges all who are impacted by the recent tragedy which took place in our nation.           
 
On May 25, 2020, the African-American community suffered the loss of George Floyd. His death was preceded by that of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and many other African-American men and women. The injustice surrounding their deaths must be shared and acknowledged by all people. Families have endured the heartache of losing a mother, father, daughter, or son. Far too many lives have been lost due to racial prejudice and police brutality. Enough is enough.
 
The injustices seen in this country are the consequences of 400+ years of oppression and have caused mental, emotional, and physical distress throughout generations. The African-American community has witnessed racial injustice throughout their lives creating fear, anger, sadness, and extreme emotional anguish. The impact of racism across the nation fuels the flames within
African-American communities to address the ongoing systemic inequities of
racial injustice.
 
NSNA stands with those who peacefully protest to eliminate injustice. COVID-19 is still prevalent across our nation. All protesters are urged to wear masks, bring water, and practice social distancing as best as possible. Health inequity in the African-American community makes this essential for all who come together to stand in solidarity.
 
To all nursing students and nursing faculty in the African-American community, we see you and hear your voices to end oppression. As an organization that affirms and supports diversity and inclusion by refusing to engage in or condone discrimination, NSNA stands with you to eradicate racial injustice. We understand that all lives will matter only when African-American lives matter. We must recognize and continue to eradicate racial disparities in our nation.

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Contact:
Sarah Zhou, Communication Specialist
718-210-0705 Ext. 1215
References
2018 Resolution #50
-       IN SUPPORT OF INCREASED EDUCATION AND AWARENESS CONCERNING THE NEEDS FOR CULTURALLY COMPETENT NURSING CARE
2019 Resolution #11
-       INCREASING AWARENESS OF INTEGRATING SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH AS PART OF STANDARDIZED HEALTH RECORDS 
National Student Nurses' Association, Inc. Website