Yes, I’ve experienced racism or prejudice as a black nurse. I’m Black American. Born and raised in the Midwest.
I have worked in the Midwest and the South.
I don’t feel like there is a stark difference with racism between the Midwest and South with respect to overt and covert racism.
Here are a few instances...
In Midwest
-As an aide in LTC (with a high African immigrant aide population), I’ve heard, “go back to Africa.”
-Patient flat out told me he didn’t want me to administer his injections as he preferred a white nurse to do it. He was a younger guy.
-Finished rooming elderly white couple, I closed the door and heard the wife say, “well... she was a very nice colored girl.” Like she was surprised.
-Sitting out to eat in my scrubs by myself, elderly woman, asks if I’m an aide, I informed her I am an RN. She says, “Oh WOW!! Your English is so good too!” 🤦🏾♀️ I proceeded to nicely relay to her, of course my English is good, I’m AMERICAN! My ancestors have been here probably since before yours.
-Having white children afraid of me when I care for them, hard to tell if it’s stranger danger or if it’s because I’m black. But, I can usually tell it’s because I’m black, they look and act as if as they never been exposed to or seen a black person in real life. Im always so surprised when little white kids are so friendly. It warms my heart because I know their parents are exposing them to different cultures and teaching inclusivity.
South
-Not a lot of experiences yet...
But, here I feel white people are surprised that I’m an RN, especially with a BSN as a black woman. They just assume I’m an MA.
I've been asked a lot what does BSN stand for after my name. When I tell them it’s a bachelors of science in nursing or 4 year degree, they are just so astonished!
I try not to let the bias, prejudice and racism bother me. I do my best to be a leading example. I am always respectful in my interactions no matter the circumstances. I kill them with kindness and professionalism.
I don’t want to push the angry black woman narrative any further.
