Honouring the world's trust

A renewed commitment to anti-racism advocacy and education from the University of Saskatchewan College of Nursing.

By Cindy Peternelj-Taylor RN, BScN, MSc, PhD(c), DF-IAFN

In April of 2017, the University of Saskatchewan College of Nursing Faculty Council approved our official philosophy — the statement we use to describe the beliefs, values, and goals that inform the college's teaching and learning practices. In this statement, we acknowledged the value of diversity, social justice, and ethical practice in all that we do.

Most of what we do in the nursing profession relies on meaningful relationships. Nurses are collaborators who strive to improve health experiences for individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and communities.

Racism and discriminatory practices cannot—and should never—be allowed to play a role in any aspect of our work with individuals, families, and communities.

As such, the trust the world places in nurses must be honoured by a renewed professional commitment to anti-racism advocacy and education. 

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) College of Nursing has identified “integrity, social justice, and unconditional positive regard" as key values that underlie our efforts to create diverse, inclusive, and safe learning spaces.

Here, we acknowledge the persistent challenges of racism and oppression in our world. We provide our unwavering support to our students, colleagues and communities, and we invite dialogue that will assist us in advancing action for a more equitable and just future.

Part of our college response is being led by Dr. Holly Graham (PhD), the Indigenous Research Chair. She has been working with the Saskatoon Anti-Racism Network to begin anti-racist education for the staff and faculty in this college and will extend the invitation to other nursing colleges and institutions in Saskatchewan. There will be three modules, each two days in length, which will be delivered virtually beginning August of 2020 (Module 1).

I would also like to encourage students, staff, and faculty to be mindful of their wellbeing and mental health during these challenging and transformative times.

Available support resources include:

Nursing has always been purposeful and I am confident that our ability to work with specific intent and direction can be applied to the complex challenges of eliminating racism.

The College of Nursing stands with all those working toward building a future where respect, diversity, and inclusivity are valued and practiced by all.

Thank you,

Cindy Peternelj-Taylor RN, BScN, MSc, PhD(c), DF-IAFN
Interim Dean, Professor
University of Saskatchewan
College of Nursing