Racism at work – Experiences from the resource group for nurses

Racism in nursing is a common, however, ignored challenge. This undermines gender and racial equity. Racism affects the health, belonging, and professional motivation of nurses of migrant origin.

Issue
Emerging evidence in recent years indicates that nurses experience racism at work in the Norwegian Health and Care Services. Nurses face racism from patients and their relatives, but also from colleagues and managers. These experiences can lead to anxiety, depression, disempowerment and thoughts of leaving the profession. Many nurses do not report these incidents of racism. Routines for follow-up and support from managers and colleagues are not yet established.

Description of the project
15 nurses of migrant origins with experiences of racism at work were invited to join a resource group, organized by the Norwegian Nurses Association (NSF). Four meetings were arranged and led by the project team with expertise in the field of racism, discrimination and health. The main goals of the meetings were to provide a safe space where nurses could share their experiences, receive support, validation, and to discuss the challenges and possible solutions to workplace discrimination and racism in nursing at different arenas and levels. In addition, the activities aimed to increase their knowledge of possible psychological consequences of racism and coping strategies.

Results
The majority of the participants reported that incidents of racism are downplayed and not taken seriously by managers, colleagues, teachers, fellow students in nursing schools, or HSE and union representatives. Spaces for discussion about racism are nonexistent and there are virtually no support mechanisms for nurses confronting racism.

Challenges and possible solutions were identified and discussed in three different arenas: in nursing education, “bedside” at work and at the organizational level in the health services and the NSF. Racism is not recognized as a workplace challenge and its effect on the health and wellbeing of nurses has been ignored. Knowledge and diversity competence are needed among managers and staff, but also routines and guidelines for handling incidents of racism must be put in place.

Lessons learnt
This pilot initiative created a safe supportive space and an important forum for sharing experiences. The participation of all the nurses in the resource group provided valuable insights into the challenges and possible solutions to racism in nursing care. Future initiatives will be able to build on this knowledge to aspire towards zero tolerance for racism and discrimination in nursing education and the health services in Norway.