RNAO celebrates LGBTQ community at annual Pride events
TORONTO, June 23, 2017 /CNW/ - Ontario's registered nurses (RN), nurse practitioners (NP), and nursing students are committed to diversity and human rights – and they also like a good party. So they will once again join the LGBTQ community and allies at Pride festivities this weekend.
Carrying colourful banners and dressed in their brightest attire, members of the Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO) and its Rainbow Nursing Interest Group (RNIG) will continue an annual tradition of marching in the Toronto Pride Parade on Sunday. Nurses will also host a booth at the Pride Toronto Streetfair throughout the weekend, where they will provide LGBTQ-related health resources.
"It is our honour to again walk alongside our LGBTQ family and friends," says RNAO CEO Doris Grinspun, noting that nurses are also participating at Pride celebrations across the province. "Our association values inclusivity and protecting the human rights of people of all sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions in Canada and around the world."
RNAO members support LGBTQ clients and colleagues in various roles throughout the health system on a daily basis, and the association has long advocated for LGBTQ equality via letters to politicians, media outreach, and professional development for health professionals. RNs and NPs across the province are determined to improve access to health services for marginalized members of this community, including Ontarians who identify as transgender.
"As experts in population health, nurses are among the best advocates for LGBTQ individuals," says Johnathon Martin, co-chair of RNIG. "When nurses come together and send their support, it comes with a passion that is truly inspiring."
RNAO is the professional association representing registered nurses, nurse practitioners, and nursing students in Ontario. Since 1925, RNAO has advocated for healthy public policy, promoted excellence in nursing practice, increased nurses' contribution to shaping the health-care system, and influenced decisions that affect nurses and the public they serve. For more information about RNAO, visit our website at RNAO.ca or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
SOURCE Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario
For further information: Daniel Punch, Communications Officer/Writer, RNAO, Tel: 416-408-5606 / 1-800-268-7199, ext. 250, [email protected]
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