The
National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) is a professional organization that represents and supports Black nurses in the United States. Founded in 1971, the NBNA aims to address the unique needs and challenges faced by Black nurses and to advocate for health equity and the elimination of health disparities in the Black community.
The NBNA has several key objectives that guide its mission and activities. These include:
Promoting
nursing education and leadership among Black nurses.
Advocating for health policies that improve the well-being of the Black community.
Providing professional development opportunities for its members.
Encouraging and supporting
research focused on health issues affecting Black populations.
Building collaborative partnerships with other healthcare organizations.
Membership in the NBNA is open to all levels of nursing professionals, including registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), nurse practitioners (NPs), and nursing students. Additionally, individuals and organizations that support the mission and goals of the NBNA can also become members.
Members of the NBNA enjoy a variety of benefits, such as:
Access to a network of over 150,000 Black nurses across the country.
Opportunities for
continuing education and professional development.
Discounts on NBNA conference registration fees.
Access to scholarships and grants for nursing education and research.
Subscription to the NBNA's official publication, the
NBNA News.
The NBNA places a strong emphasis on
nursing education and offers various programs and resources to support its members. These include scholarships for nursing students, educational workshops, and partnerships with academic institutions. The organization also provides mentorship programs to help guide and support new and aspiring nurses.
Advocacy and policy are core components of the NBNA's mission. The organization actively engages in
health policy advocacy to address issues such as health disparities, access to care, and the social determinants of health. The NBNA collaborates with policymakers, healthcare organizations, and community leaders to promote policies that benefit the Black community and the nursing profession as a whole.
There are various ways to get involved with the NBNA, including:
Becoming a member and participating in local chapter activities.
Attending the annual NBNA conference and other events.
Volunteering for NBNA committees and special projects.
Contributing to the NBNA's research and advocacy initiatives.
Supporting the organization through donations and sponsorships.
Over the years, the NBNA has made significant contributions to the nursing profession and the health of the Black community. The organization has successfully advocated for policies that address health disparities, provided support and resources for Black nurses, and raised awareness about critical health issues. Through its efforts, the NBNA continues to be a powerful voice in the fight for health equity and the advancement of the nursing profession.
