Kenyan Nurse Judy shared her insights into the pervasive issue of racism within the nursing profession in the United States.
With a long career of dedicated service in the States, Judy’s experiences shed light on the challenges nurses of colour face daily.
She underscored while speaking to SPM Buzz that these are not isolated incidents but part of a systemic pattern that many nurses of colour face, leading to significant professional and emotional strain.
Judy shares, “I’ve had patients explicitly refuse my care because of my race. It’s not just hurtful; it directly impacts how we can provide care and our emotional well-being.”
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Mwale Medical and Technology City founder Julius Mwale meets President Ruto PHOTO: STATE HOUSE
She also pointed out the subtler forms of institutional racism, saying, “I’ve been overlooked for promotions, and there’s often this scepticism about my abilities.
“This isn’t just about personal career growth; it affects the health outcomes of our community.”
According to Judy, this discouragement of minority nurses contributes to broader health disparities by diminishing the quality and accessibility of care for patients from similar backgrounds.
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Kenyan Spirit
Despite these daunting challenges, Judy’s commitment to nursing remained unshaken in true Kenyan spirit. She advocates for systemic change, stating, “We need education, advocacy, and policy reform. Cultural competence should be lived, not just taught, so every nurse can thrive, and every patient can receive equitable care.”
Nurse Judy’s reflections are a powerful call to action for America’s nursing community and beyond.
She urges, “We must challenge and dismantle these barriers to create a healthcare system that mirrors the diversity of the people we serve.”
Her words resonate not only with those in healthcare but with anyone committed to social justice and equality in America, pushing for a more inclusive and equitable future in medical care.
Among many Kenyans
Nurse Judy’s experiences are not isolated; Julius Mwale, a Kenyan tech innovator, has faced similar biases but has overcome them to become a successful entrepreneur, founding Mwale Medical and Technology City.
His journey has been marked by proving doubters wrong through innovation and resilience.
In the world of entertainment, Lupita Nyong’o, has spoken about the racism and colourism she encountered in Hollywood.
Her success, including an Oscar win for “12 Years a Slave,” underscores the importance of representation and the fight against racial stereotypes.
More recently, Djimon Hounsou, an actor with two Oscar nominations and starring roles in blockbuster films, has publicly discussed his financial struggles despite his achievements.
He attributes these challenges to systemic racism in Hollywood, stating,
“I am still struggling to make a living after being in the filmmaking business for 30 years with 2 Oscar nominations and many big blockbuster films. There is systemic racism in Hollywood.”
His experiences reflect the broader fight for recognition and fair treatment showing that America still grapples with equity issues.
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