Orlando, Gun Violence, LGBTQ Rights, and Nurse Advocacy

The mass shooting at the Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, Florida on June 12th, 2016 was a stark reminder that we are still struggling with issues related to violence, hatred, guns, homophobia, and the potential for terrorism in the United States. As nurses, we bear a variety of responsibilities to the public when it comes to public health, safety, and wellness, and how we respond collectively and individually to such events says a great deal about the nursing profession and the nurses who comprise it.Suffering All AroundWhen I first heard about the Orlando shooting, I of course thought of the injured, the dead, and their families, but I also simultaneously thought about the police officers, fire fighters, paramedics, and others who responded to the scene. First responders are called that for a reason, and I can only imagine the feelings racing through the minds of those who first walked into that bullet-riddled nightclub to witness the mass of maimed bodies scattered throughout the building. Some of my next thoughts hoped beyond hope that the perpetrator was not Muslim, knowing that if he was it would undoubtedly lead to more anti-Muslim rhetoric and misguided retribution by politicians, the media, and the general public.When I learned that the target had been a bar where the GLBTQ community congregated for fun, advocacy, and community building, my heart sank as I reflected on the violence and ill will that that community had already suffered over the years.As nurses, I believe t...
Source: Digital Doorway - Category: Nursing Tags: nurse nurses nursing Source Type: blogs