We asked...What is nursing activism?

Denise Kelly - Chair of trade union committee 

"Nursing activism is a powerful force for change within the healthcare system, driven by the passion and dedication of nurses who strive to improve conditions for both their patients and their profession. To me, nursing activism is about harnessing the collective strength and resilience of nurses to advocate for systemic change that benefits both our profession and our patients. It’s about recognising the vital role nursing staff play in healthcare and ensuring our voices are heard in the corridors of power.

 

As Chair of the RCN Trade Union Committee and one of the members who led RCN Northern Ireland’s historic strike action in 2019, I have seen first-hand the power of our united efforts and affirmation of our uniqueness as a professional body and trade union. For me, nursing activism can take many forms: attending branch meetings, joining union activities, participating in rallies, lobbying policymakers, or even just starting conversations with colleagues about the issues we face.

To me, democracy is more than just a vote. Every day, trade union representatives battle for workplace democracy and a voice for workers. Organising workers, growing our unions, strengthening collective bargaining, and demanding respect for trade union rights are integral to our fight for democracy. The key is to engage, educate, and empower our nursing members to stand up for themselves and their patients.

By doing so, we advocate for a better future for nursing, ensuring safe working conditions, fair pay and the highest standards of safe and effective patient care. To me, it’s about using our collective voice to create meaningful change and advance the profession we are so passionate about.”

Alisha Brown - Chair of students committee

"The word activist scared me. I associated it with people who stood on picket lines or outside parliament. Prior to the RCN Strike action, I had never done anything like this. But I had people describe me as an activist, and I thought, “me, no you’ve got the wrong person.” Then I realised that activism comes in many forms. You don’t have to shout the loudest or stand on a picket line. It’s the conversations you have with people, advocating for your patients, your colleagues, and your profession. Standing up for what you believe in and challenging the ‘norms.’ My activism journey started when I joined my nursing program; I found my voice and used it to help others. My activism takes many forms, and so can yours. I use social media and conversations with my peers and my colleagues on placement. What I’ve learned is anyone can be an activist.”