MNA Speaks Out Against Police Brutality and Racism

MNA Speaks Out Against Police Brutality and Racism

It is with sad and very heavy hearts that we, the Maryland Nurses Association, write this necessary statement of solidarity for those fighting against racism and injustice. As the President of the Maryland Nurses Association (MNA), a registered nurse, and a Black Woman that has not been exempt from racism, it is critical that we speak out about the lack of racial equality and moral and ethical values within our society and across this country. Nurses are held to a high standard that can be found in the “Nurses Code of Ethics” that obligates us to advocate for and be partners with the community. As nurses, we must speak out against racism, discrimination, and injustice. Silence is not an option!

The heinous crimes of the police and the senseless and institutional racism must be addressed to prevent the brutal murders of individuals such as George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Freddie Gray, Michael Brown, Tamir Rice, Eric Garner, Trayvon Martin, and Ahmaud Arbery to ensure justice. These murders and others have exposed the need for fundamental changes in police accountability, and there is clearly an outcry for systemic change to address racism embedded in all institutions throughout our nation.

Many Americans have taken to the streets to protest, and in doing so, are sharing their pain, frustration, and anger. It is time for the members of Congress to match the demands of the American people for justice by passing laws for police accountability and to root out systemic racism in all forms because “Black Lives Matter.” The Maryland Nurses Association will support such legislation.

There are many possible actions that can curtail needless deaths and injustices. This should start with the outright banning of the use of chokeholds. Federal funding can be used to educate and train officers in de-escalatory practices. The Department of Justice needs to reestablish the Civil Rights Division to investigate and ensure the creation of national standards and appropriate policies for the Civil Rights of Black people. We need to ensure that consequences exist for those who do not comply. A web-based repository, similar to the National Practitioners Database, could be established to track verified police misconduct and hold offenders accountable. These changes are required to protect our citizens, our communities, and that police doing a good job of their jobs.