by G. Rumay Alexander , EdD, RN, FAAN, and Beverly Malone, PhD, RN, FAAN (NAPSA)—Asthe world reacts with shock and horror at mass shootings in the US., it is importantthat weas nurses and nurse educatorsreaffirm our core values and dedicate ourselves to the essential role we play in creating and sustaininga cultureofcivility, wherever we workandinteract with others. Asrepresentatives of the National Leaguefor Nursing, we believe we speak for our membersin calling for an end to name-calling and an emphasis on thoughtful dialogue and courageous conversation. America’s nursescall for thoughtful dialogue and courageous conversation about the health andsafety in this ues that affect nai As well, we believeit is essential to address issues related to gun ownership in the United States. This past Feb- ruary, the National League for Nursing joined with 166 national, state, and local medical, public health, and research organizations in asking Con- gress to provide funding for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to conduct public health research into firearm morbidity and mortality prevention. We emphasized that the use offirearmsis a public health issue and must be addressed as such, noting that with rigorousresearch,it is possible to “accurately quantify and describe the facets of an issue andidentify opportunities for reducingits related morbidity and mortality.” Asweconsider the National League for Nursing’s core values,let us reflect especially on the value of diversity andinclusiveness, which encompasses respect forall persons and celebrates the richness of every individual, irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender, sexualorientation, socio-economic status, age, physicalabilities, and religious and political beliefs or other ideologies. An appreciation for the value ofdiversity is essential for achievingan inclusive and civil society. We all have a role to play in helping to make that happen. G. RumayAlexander is NLNpast-pres- ident and professor and former associate vice chancellor/chief diversity officer of the University ofNorth Carolina at Chapel Hill. Beverly Maloneis NLN CEO.
