This article describes how coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) health disparities relate to the social determinants of health and reviews the importance of a diverse nursing workforce prepared to advance social justice. The article reviews recommendations from the National Academy of Medicine and highlights practical strategies to promote diversity and social justice, including mentoring nurses from underrepresented backgrounds, amplifying diverse nursing voices, and leveraging the power of coalitions. In highlighting the interwoven impact of COVID-19 and demand for social change throughout 2020 to 2022, the article strives to move beyond the acute COVID-19 crisis to sustained social justice in health care.
Keywords: Belonging; COVID-19; Cultural competence; Diversity; Mentorship; Nursing; Podcast; Workforce.
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