WSNA statement on Charlottesville violence

It is with heavy hearts that we add our voices to those who have called for tolerance and inclusion this week. Discrimination and intolerance are unacceptable to us as nurses and as Americans. The hate that poured into Charlottesville last weekend must be condemned in no uncertain terms. That is why we must join the many individuals and organizations across the political spectrum who have loudly denounced white supremacists and hate groups. Our country is better than this.

Millions of people have taken to social media to stand up for the America we believe in - an America that is inclusive of all races, religions, gender identities, sexual orientations and abilities. Many activists showed up in Charlottesville to ensure that message was loud and clear in the face of hate and violence. Together with the country, we mourn those who were killed. Our hearts go out to their families and to those who were injured in Charlottesville.

Heather Heyer’s mom touched the nation with her closing comments at her daughter's memorial: “I’d rather have my child, but by golly, if I have to give her up, we're going to make it count.”

Let us each strive to make our actions and our words count as our nation seeks to find a way forward.

Jan Bussert, WSNA President
Sally Watkins, WSNA Executive Director