AAACN has long prioritized diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), actively reshaping our governance to mirror the diverse environments we serve. The first step was establishing the DEI Committee, which has now evolved into the Inclusion and Belonging Committee.
This change reflects a proactive focus on fostering inclusion and belonging within our membership and promoting inclusive workplaces, while still upholding DEI values. The committee collaborates across our organization to drive initiatives aligned with our culture, profession, and vision for the future.
Additionally, the Inclusion and Belonging Committee creates and provides learning opportunities, education, and resources our members can utilize in their own practice.
Archived Webinars
Our webinar series is an engaging resource for our members that will be added to over time. TheInclusion and Belonging Committee provides 4-5 webinars annually. These recorded webinars are free to watch, and speakers and topics are carefully selected by the committee to educate nurses on promoting and understanding diversity, equity, and inclusion in the healthcare realm.
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The Impact of Trauma on the Health and Wellbeing of Pediatric Patients |
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Leveraging Interpreter Services & CLAS Standards to Improve Your Patient Care |
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Leadership in the New Era of Work |
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Sexual and Gender Identity: Historical Context and Present State |
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Cultural Humility as a Framework for Promoting Health Equity |
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LGBTQ+ Patient Identities |
Published Articles
The Inclusion and Belonging Committee has published several articles in AAACN’s peer-reviewed bimonthly publication, ViewPoint, as well as in the “Perspectives in Ambulatory Care” column, which is published up to six times annually in Nursing Economic$, a peer-reviewed journal that advances nursing leadership in healthcare with a focus on tomorrow. These articles are an important tool to educate members on issues that impact diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the healthcare realm.
Nursing Economic$ Perspectives in Ambulatory Care Nursing
March/April 2023
Gaining Insight into Member Demographics and Perceptions of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives in a Professional Organization (AAACN)
Kim Regis, Quyen Phan, Amy Cadoret, Nancy Parker, and Beth Ann Swan
ViewPoint
May/June 2024
Evidence-Based Strategies to Promote Health Equity for All
Kim Regis
Improving Primary Care: Health Equity and Breastfeeding
Kim Regis
May/June 2023
Cultural Humility as a Framework for Ambulatory Care Nurses to Address Health Equity and Inclusion
Quyen Phan, Nancy Weaver Parker, and Amy Cadoret
DEIB Scholarship
The Inclusion and Belonging Committee established the DEIB Scholarship to promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in ambulatory care nursing, healthcare, and the AAACN organization.
The DEIB Scholarship was created to increase diversity within AAACN, financially support underrepresented groups in AAACN (including funding for hotel, travel, and registration), promote cultural competence, inclusivity, and belonging within AAACN, and to encourage learning from diverse perspectives within conference.
This scholarship will be maintained by members of the Inclusion and Belonging Committee, who will review applications and determine the recipients.
This scholarship will provide one recipient annually with a complimentary AAACN conference registration (full conference only; will not include Pre-Conference or Post-Conference sessions), as well as reimbursement for up to $2,500 for travel and hotel expenses.
Learn about the eligibility criteria and/or apply now. The application deadline is September 18, 2024.
Impact on AAACN Resources
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The Scope and Standards of Practice for Professional Ambulatory Care Nursing explicitly identifies and defines ambulatory care nursing practice in outpatient settings. The 10th edition, published in 2023, contains a brand-new Standard on Cultural Humility, created with huge input from the Chairs of the Inclusion and Belonging Committee at the time of publication. This new Standard represents the first step in a larger plan to incorporate the Inclusion and Belonging Committee into the oversight of AAACN’s resources to ensure they are representative of the diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging ideals AAACN values. The Inclusion and Belonging Committee also created inclusive language guidelines for use within AAACN publications, white papers, articles, ViewPoint, the Journal of Ambulatory Care Nursing (JACN), and more. Implementing these guidelines will foster a more welcoming and respectful environment within AAACN's membership, ensuring that all individuals feel valued and included in our community. |
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Celebrating Cultural Awareness and Progress
Deaf History Month
AAACN’s Inclusion and Belonging Committee invites you to learn more about the lives and challenges of our coworkers, patients, friends, and neighbors who are deaf. Then, use the knowledge to take the challenge below.
Three important dates in Deaf history:
March 13, 1988 – Irving (I.) King Jordan became the first deaf president of Gallaudet University, Washington, D.C.
April 8, 1864 – Gallaudet University (first college for the deaf) was created when President Lincoln signed its charter
April 15, 1817 – American School for the Deaf (K-12), the first public school for the deaf opened in Hartford, Connecticut
Due to the three dates spanning 2 months, The National Association of the Deaf designated April as Deaf History Month with new emphasis on marginalized deaf communities that had previously been ignored.
Knowing the facts about deafness will help nurses improve patient care:
- One in 3 people over 65 in the world are affected by hearing loss
- 12 percent of the population in the United States are impacted by severe hearing loss
- In the world, compromised hearing affects 32 million children under 15 years of age
- Loud noise (85 decibels or more) is the most common cause of hearing loss
The Deaf History Month Challenge:
Communication is the key to our nursing interactions and teaching. By focusing on that premise, check out the videos below to:
- Advocate for the rights and improved access of those experiencing hearing loss
- Celebrate the presence and accomplishments of deaf individuals
- Spread the word for others to learn more about the deaf community and culture
YouTube Videos:
Other Resources:
- https://www.nad.org/2022/01/31/national-deaf-history-month-dates/
- https://nationaltoday.com/deaf-history-month/
National Transgender Day of Visibility, 3/31
AAACN’s Inclusion and Belonging Committee proudly recognizes National Transgender Day of Visibility as an opportunity to celebrate the resilience, contributions, and identities of transgender and gender-diverse individuals. As an organization committed to advancing inclusive, equitable, and compassionate care, we reaffirm our dedication to ensuring that all patients, including those in the transgender community, receive high-quality, affirming healthcare in ambulatory care settings.
We recognize the unique healthcare challenges that transgender individuals may face, including disparities in access to care, discrimination, and barriers to necessary medical services. As nurses, we play a critical role in fostering an environment of respect, dignity, and understanding, ensuring that every patient is treated with empathy and evidence-based care that aligns with their needs.
AAACN remains committed to supporting education, training, and policies that promote health equity for transgender individuals. We stand with our transgender colleagues, patients, and communities in advocating for a healthcare system that is inclusive, informed, and affirming of every person’s identity.
On this day and every day, we celebrate visibility, authenticity, and the right of all individuals to receive care that honors their full humanity.
Neurodiversity Celebration Week
Neurodiversity is an umbrella term to describe an alternative thinking style. Examples are Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia (affects movement and coordination), and Dyscalculia (difficulty understanding and working with numbers). As nurses, we are committed to providing compassionate, inclusive care to all individuals, including those who are neurodivergent.
This Neurodiversity Celebration Week, March 17-23, AAACN’s Inclusion and Belonging Committee takes the opportunity not only to support our neurodivergent colleagues and patients, but also to deepen our understanding of the strengths and challenges that come with neurodiversity. We recognize that neurodivergence is an essential part of human diversity. By fostering an inclusive and supportive care environment, all people can thrive, contribute their unique perspectives, and feel valued for who they are.
We invite you to join us to learn more about neurodiversity, sharing experiences and exploring ways we can adapt our practices to be more inclusive. Let us engage in meaningful conversations, ask questions and support one another in celebrating the diverse ways we think, learn and work.
To learn more, visit:
https://www.neurodiversityweek.com/introduction
https://happymind.co/inclusion-calendar/neurodiversity-celebration-week/
International Women's Day
As we celebrate International Women's Day 2025, AAACN’s Inclusion and Belonging Committee is honored to recognize the tireless efforts of all our nurses and leaders. Your dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable environment for all nurses, particularly women, is truly inspiring.
For far too long, nurses have faced systemic barriers, biases, and inequalities that have prevented them from reaching their full potential. However, through the Committee's work, we are witnessing a seismic shift in the nursing landscape. Your efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion are creating a ripple effect that will be felt for generations to come.
As we celebrate the achievements of women in nursing, we also acknowledge the challenges that still lie ahead. We recognize that women of color, women with disabilities, and women from diverse cultural backgrounds continue to face unique barriers and biases. However, we are committed to addressing these disparities and creating a nursing profession that is truly inclusive and equitable.
To the women of AAACN (some pictured here), we offer our deepest gratitude for your leadership, resilience, and determination. Your contributions to the nursing profession are immeasurable, and your impact will be felt for years to come.
As we move forward, let us continue to uplift and empower one another. Let us celebrate our differences and promote a culture of inclusivity and belonging. Let us create a nursing profession that is truly reflective of the diverse communities we serve.
Together, we can achieve greatness. Together, we can create a brighter future for all nurses. Happy International Women's Day 2025!
Ramadan
This year in the United States, Ramadan is expected to begin at sundown on February 28 and end on March 30, with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr that begins after the sun sets. The exact timing depends on the lunar cycle, where one lives in the world, and the visibility of the moon phase.
We may only be aware that our patients will be fasting during that time period and should always eat before sunrise but what do we really know or don’t know about Ramadan? As nurses, we work to understand “where the patient is coming from”. In order to be more respectful, it would be useful to know more.
Get started by taking this quiz and then consider watching these two short videos.
Links to open-source articles for further study:
- Basic knowledge
- How might we ask and learn about Ramadan without being rude
- Awareness of the Islamic faith while caring for patients
- Ramadan fasting and medical considerations with various patient conditions
The AAACN Inclusion and Belonging Committee hopes this information is helpful to assist you and your patients in their care.
Black History Month
Black History Month is an opportunity to understand Black histories, going beyond stories of racism and slavery to spotlight Black achievement. The 2025 Black History Month theme, “African Americans and Labor,” focuses on how free, unfree, skilled, unskilled, vocational, or voluntary labor has had a significant impact on the experiences of Black people. From the agricultural labor of enslaved Africans to the ongoing struggle for social and economic justice, the history of labor is a powerful narrative in Black history and cannot be forgotten nor ignored.
The Inclusion and Belonging Committee is committed to creating a healthcare environment in which every patient and provider is treated with respect, dignity, and value. By embracing diversity, we improve patient outcomes, foster community trust, and continue to build an equitable healthcare system for all. We honor the Black pioneers who paved the way but let us also recommit to the work ahead. Together, we strive to make healthcare a place where every person, every nurse—regardless of race, background, or identity—can thrive.
As you celebrate Black History Month and share your appreciation for African American history and culture, use these hashtags on social media: #BlackHistoryMonth #AfricanAmericanHistory #CelebrateBlackExcellence #BlackHistoryMatters #BlackCulture. Be sure to follow AAACN on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Showcase how your organization is honoring Black history and its significance with a picture on AAACN’s posts.
Martin Luther King Day
Please join AAACN’s Inclusion and Belonging Committee as we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a pastor and activist who rallied for civil rights, including racial justice and legal equality. He advocated for the end of discriminatory practices and racial segregation. His non-violent activism during the Civil Rights Movement led to the development of many federal, state and law reforms.
After the March on Washington, where Dr. King delivered the famous “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963, federal legislation was passed in 1964 and 1965, which banned discrimination based on race, color, gender, religion, and national origin, (The Civil Rights Act of 1964) and which protected voting rights for minority populations (The Voting Rights Act of 1965). In 1968, federal legislation was passed, which enforced fair housing practices and prohibited discrimination based on race, religion, gender, and national origin (The Fair Housing Act of 1968).
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (also known as MLK Day) is a federal holiday and a time of remembrance for a leader, activist and change agent. This day commemorates his life’s work which was dedicated to serving others. As a result, this day is also known as “National Service Day,” where individuals are asked to observe Dr. King’s life’s work through volunteer activities, serving others and their community. His legacy is a reminder that we all have the power to effect positive change through servant leadership.
Religious Freedom Day
The AAACN Inclusion and Belonging Committee invites you to join us in celebrating Religious Freedom Day on January 16. This day honors the First Amendment, which guarantees every individual the right to freely practice their religion or beliefs without fear of discrimination. It is a reminder of our nation’s commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and respect for all faiths.
You can engage in this day actively by:
By protecting religious freedom, we respect the foundation of this country and foster a society where people from all backgrounds can contribute equally and live in harmony, enriching our collective experiences and ensuring a more just and equitable future for all.
Domestic Violence Prevention Month
The AAACN Inclusion and Belonging Committee invites you to join us in advocating for the needs of and speaking for those without a voice in October as part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The theme for this year’s awareness month continues to be “Heal, Hold, & Center” where the purpose is to discover the many ways that we can engage culturally appropriate care to heal the victims, hold space to hear and support survivors, and center on those who have been most marginalized by domestic violence and the stigma surrounding it.
Were you aware that in the United States, nearly 1 in 2 women and more than 2 in 5 men reported experiencing intimate partner violence at some point in their lifetime? 85% of all domestic violence victims are women, although 1 in 4 men report receiving severe beating from an intimate partner. Victimization rates vary by race, with White and Black women more frequently victims of beatings than Asian or Hispanic women*.
What can you do to help #healholdcenter this year?
For more information:
About Intimate Partner Violence | Intimate Partner Violence Prevention | CDC
*https://www.breakthecycle.org/domestic-violence-statistics/
LGBTQ+ History Month Statement
While June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month, in October we celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month by acknowledging the leaders who have paved the way and continue to inspire us with their examples. Educate yourself continuously: inclusivity is a lifelong process and taking the initiative to educate yourself about LGBTQ+ issues, identities, and history is crucial.
What we can do on a daily basis to be inclusive:
Hispanic Heritage Month - 09/2024
The AAACN Inclusion and Belonging Committee is proud to celebrate Latinx Heritage Month, Sept 15-Oct 15, 2024. This a time to recognize and honor the rich cultural contributions and achievements of the Latinx community. This month offers a valuable opportunity to reflect on the vital role that Latinx individuals have played in shaping healthcare and nursing, both historically and in modern practice, while also recognizing the continuing gap in Latinx clinicians compared to the community (17% of the population is Latinx and only 3.5% of nurses).
Latinx nurses continue to make significant strides in advancing health equity, advocating for culturally competent care, and improving outcomes for their communities. As we honor Latinx Heritage Month, we also reaffirm our dedication to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the nursing profession. By promoting a sense of belonging and respect for all, we strengthen our collective ability to deliver high-quality, and culturally appropriate care to the diverse populations we serve.
Together, let us celebrate the vibrant culture, contributions, and leadership of the Latinx community, while continuing to work toward a more inclusive future for all.
For more information about Hispanic Heritage Month: Hispanic Heritage Month | National Museum of the American Latino (si.edu).
For more information about the Latinx nurse contributions to healthcare Hispanic And Latino Nurses You Should Know About | NurseJournal.org
Women’s Equality Day Statement - 08/2024
On this Women’s Equality Day, the Inclusion and Belonging Committee celebrate the incredible strength, resilience, and dedication of women in nursing. As leaders in ambulatory care, you are the backbone of our healthcare system, providing compassionate and expert care to countless patients every day.
Your leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to excellence inspire us all. Together, we can create a future where every woman has the chance to lead, thrive, and make a difference. Let’s continue to support and uplift each other, paving the way for a more equitable and inclusive world. Happy Women’s Equality Day!
AAACN's Inclusion and Belonging Committee recognizes Disability Pride Month
Commemorating the 34th anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), this July we celebrate Disability Pride Month. During this month, we work to center and explore the experiences of the 61 million adults living with a disability. According to the Disability Funders Network, "people with disabilities constitute the largest minority group in the United States, making up an estimated 20 percent of the total population. It is a diverse group, crossing lines of age, ethnicity, gender, race, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status." People with disabilities face many challenges, including access, discrimination, and ableism – all of which are known social determinants of health. Aligned with the CDC's goal, we encourage all AAACN members to strive to facilitate seamless access to healthcare and public health programming that support health-enhancing behaviors for our patients with visible and invisible disabilities.
AAACN’s Inclusion and Belonging Committee (IBC) recognizes the significance of Juneteenth as a historic day in commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.
This day, observed on June 19th, marks the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. We stand in solidarity and hope for us all within AAACN. Let this day and all the days to come serve as a powerful reminder of resilience, courage, and the enduring spirit of those who fought for their freedom and continue to advocate for justice and equality. The IBC is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where every individual is respected, valued, and empowered. We reaffirm our commitment to promoting equity in healthcare, supporting a diverse workforce, educating, advocating for, and building inclusive partnerships.
What can you do to celebrate?
Together, we honor the legacy of those who came before us and pledge to continue the work of a just and equitable society for all.
The Inclusion and Belonging Committee wishes the AAACN membership a happy Pride Month.
The AAACN Inclusion and Belonging Committee (formerly known as the DEI Committee) recognizes June as LGBTQIA+ Pride Month. As members, we extend a warm invitation to each of you to join us in this essential conversation and learning. Together, let us unite in a shared commitment to expanding our understanding, raising awareness, and fostering inclusive environments where LGBTQIA+ patients and colleagues are not just acknowledged, but truly valued and respected.
Every year, June serves as a time to support collective stories of resilience, triumph, and the ongoing pursuit of equality. This month-long observance stands as a beacon of unity, empowerment, and recognition for the vibrant tapestry of identities within the LGBTQIA+ community, both past and present. Through a myriad of events, gatherings, and commemorations, we honor the influence of LGBTQIA+ individuals on our society, and we stand together in solidarity, reminding each other that we are never alone on this journey of self-discovery and acceptance.
Pride Month carries profound significance, rooted in the historic Stonewall Riots of June 1969, a pivotal moment when the LGBTQIA+ community ignited a movement that reverberates to this day. From those courageous actions emerged a chorus of voices calling for justice, dignity, and the right to love freely without fear or prejudice.
The legacy of Stonewall endures as a guiding light, inspiring us to continue the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility in the face of ongoing challenges and discrimination. As we reflect on the journey from Stonewall to the present, we recognize the progress made while acknowledging the work that still lies ahead.
At the heart of Pride Month lies a call to action: to advocate for inclusive policies, and champion the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. It is a time to celebrate the diversity of community and to embrace the unique gifts and perspectives that each individual person brings.
As members of AAACN’s Inclusion and Belonging Committee, we extend an invitation to all nurses and healthcare professionals to join us in this vital conversation and learning. Let us learn, raise awareness, foster understanding, and create welcoming spaces where LGBTQIA+ patients and colleagues feel seen, heard, and respected.
- Basic knowledge
- How might we ask and learn about Ramadan without being rude
- Awareness of the Islamic faith while caring for patients
- Ramadan fasting and medical considerations with various patient conditions
- Attending an interfaith service
- Teaching others about our country’s foundation of religious freedom
- Learning more about other religions or religious freedom yourself