Celebrating Nursing during Black History Month: The Past & The Present

Black history in nursing is a testament to resilience, excellence, and groundbreaking contributions in healthcare. Despite facing racial discrimination and systemic barriers, Black nurses have played a crucial role in advancing the profession and improving patient care. Figures like Mary Eliza Mahoney, the first African American licensed nurse in the U.S., paved the way for future generations. During segregation, Black nurses provided essential care in Black communities, often with limited resources, and fought for inclusion in mainstream medical institutions. The contributions of Black nurses during wars, public health crises, and the Civil Rights Movement further highlight their dedication and impact. Today, Black nurses like myself continue to break barriers, advocate for health equity, and inspire future generations, ensuring their legacy remains a vital part of nursing history.

Check out this list of Black nurses who made significant strides in advancing the role of Black nurses in healthcare and fostering inclusive practices in the profession.

1. Ida V. M. Jackson (1886–1969) – The first African American nurse to receive a master’s degree in nursing, she worked to improve healthcare for underserved Black communities.
2. Mabel Keaton Staupers (1890–1989) – A key figure in integrating the American Nurses Association (ANA) and advocating for the inclusion of Black nurses in the professional field.
3. Loretta Ford (1920–present) – Co-founder of the Nurse Practitioner (NP) role, which revolutionized advanced practice nursing and expanded healthcare access, particularly in underserved areas.
4. Lillian Holland Harvey (1908–2008) – The first African American woman to be appointed to the Texas Board of Nursing, she played a significant role in the integration of nursing schools.
5. Edith A. McAllister (1907–1990) – One of the first African American nurses to work in public health and nursing education, she helped develop training programs for public health nurses.
6. Anna J. Cooper (1858–1964) – A scholar and educator, Cooper fought for equality in nursing and was an advocate for the higher education of African American women.
7. Catherine O’Neal (1954–present) – A pioneer in the development of health policies that address racial disparities in nursing care, and a leader in nursing education and leadership.

I hope this blog post has shed light on the significant contributions Black women have made to the profession of nursing throughout history.

Until next time,

Suzette