Horsford, García, Barragán Introduce Resolution to Designate National Hispanic Nurses Day
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Representatives Steven Horsford (NV-04), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), and Nannette Diaz Barragán (CA-44) introduced a resolution to designate September 22 as National Hispanic Nurses Day to recognize the strength and dedication of Hispanic nurses and thank them for their service to their communities.
“Throughout the course of the pandemic, nurses have demonstrated a profound commitment to keeping Americans safe,” said Congressman Steven Horsford. “Even before this public health emergency, Hispanic nurses played an essential role in delivering culturally competent care to our communities. Increasing diversity in the health care workforce has long been a priority of mine, and I have pushed Congress to invest in programs that train and support health care workers from underrepresented backgrounds. I’m proud to introduce this resolution alongside Reps. García and Barragán to honor Hispanic nurses for their dedicated work in Nevada and across the nation.”
“Hispanic nurses have served on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic for more than a year now as our trusted health care workforce, all while enduring sleepless nights, burnout, and the devastating loss of patients, peers, and friends,” said Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García. “For many Latinos, they play a critical role as our translators, educators, and biggest advocates, which is especially true and much-needed in a pandemic that has disproportionately impacted our community. I am proud to introduce this resolution with my colleagues Congressman Horsford and Congresswoman Barragán to recognize the sacrifice and selflessness of Hispanic nurses and designate September 22 as National Hispanic Nurses Day.”
“Hispanic nurses deserve to be recognized for their selfless contributions to our communities and our country. This is especially true while battling a deadly pandemic,” said Congresswoman Nannette Diaz Barragán. “As we honor the thousands of Hispanic nurses, it’s past time to recognize and honor the contributions the Hispanic and Latino community have made to our healthcare system. I am proud to join my colleagues, Congressman Horsford and Congressman García, to designate September 22 as National Hispanic Nurses Day.”
“The resolution designating September 22 as ‘National Hispanic Nurses Day’ elevates the role Hispanic nurses play in improving Latino Health outcomes across the country. Hispanic Nurses are at the forefront of healthcare leadership in our communities as we serve as volunteer leaders and advocates. We have led, advocated, and provided important health services and education to our communities since 1975, and most recently during the pandemic. Our work and programming touches the lives of underserved communities whom have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. This recognition highlights our commitment to improving health outcomes in our local communities and throughout the United States,” said Adrianna Nava, President of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses.
“The Nevada Chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses is honored to celebrate all the great work that is being done by Hispanic nurses in our communities and across our great nation! We are making a difference in the health of a nation and are proud to celebrate our efforts on such a great day!”said Lisa Marie Pacheco, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, President of Nevada Hispanic Nurses Association.
“Hispanic nurses are essential in the endeavor to reduce health disparities in our communities. They bring a strong spirit and varied cultural backgrounds that strengthen nursing as a whole.” said Esmeralda Clark, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, a nursing lecturer at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and founding member of the Nevada Chapter of the Association of Hispanic Nurses.