As a predominately white organization, the Oregon Nurses Association knows we have a lot of work to do to move ourselves, and our profession, towards a truly equitable world. It is through the lens of advancing racial and social justice that we look at the recent conviction of Derek Chauvin for the murder of George Floyd with a feeling of solemn hope. Accountability, though rare, can be achieved.

ONA extends our gratitude to every person who has raised their voices on the streets, at the ballot box, in their workplaces, and in their homes in a direct challenge to systemic racism and the profound harm it has done, and continues to do to Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) members of our communities. There are many tools that can be used to advance social change and so—even though the conviction of Chauvin was a step towards desperately needed police accountability—we recommit ourselves to finding more ways to engage in the struggle for justice.

Last March ONA issued a statement about racism being a public health crisis. We joined a chorus of voices from across the world with this message. We reaffirm it today in our political work in the current Oregon legislative session and in our recommitment to work within our sphere of influence--health care--to combat the deadly effects of racism and bias.

As nurses, as union members, as leaders in our communities, as parents and voters we call upon everyone who believes in justice to stand together and do the work. Today, ONA pledges to re-engage in this crucial work with deeper fervor and passion.

In the coming months, ONA will hire our first ever Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion who will help guide us in the deep system change we require to be a truly anti-racist organization. We are hosting an Equity Conference in August focused on the work that nurses and the health care system needs to do to ensure true equity in access to health care. We will feature a number of workshops, continuing education courses, free Facebook live panel discussions, and partnerships with other social and racial justice champions to provide our members with access to the skills and knowledge they need to help do their work. These are only a few current steps on our ongoing journey initiated by the members back in 2018 and we pledge our work will continue. 

In honor of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Duante Wright, Rayshard Brooks, Daniel Prude, Atatiana Jefferson, Stephon Clark, Philando Castile, Alton Sterling, Freddie Gray, Janisha Fonville, Eric Garner, Michelle Cusseaux, Akai Gurlie, and so, so many more we pledge: we will do the work.

Today, we re-engage in the struggle and commit once again to make this organization, this state and this nation places where people of color are free from oppression and discrimination once and for all. 

We ask you all to join us.