X BC's four nursing associations, which represented the four nursing designations BC - RNs, LPNs, NPs and RPNs - have been collaborating closely since 2013 on the BC Coalition of Nursing Associations (BCCNA or the Coalition). This collaboration was groundbreaking in demonstrating the importance of collaboration and nursing unity to strengthen the profession.

Over the past several years since the Coalition was formed, we have learned that equal representation, regardless of the numbers of nurses working in each designation, is a very important part of an effective and fair Board. This equal representation is vital to the smooth running of the organization so that each designation has an equal and valued voice at the table and in our decision-making processes.

While the Coalition was a powerful force in bringing together the nursing profession in the province and demonstrating that it is possible to break down the siloes and hierarchies that exist in the profession, the nursing groups were not unified under a single umbrella, until now.

Celebrating 5 Years of Advocacy

Now, NNPBC celebrates five years as the single united professional association representing all nursing designations in this province. We are privileged to have been the first united association of this kind in Canada, and to represent a strong voice of BC nurses on the national and international stage.

By our mandate, NNPBC supports and promotes excellence in nursing practice, education, research and leadership, and empowers nurses to actively engage in advocacy to influence health and social policy. Over these few years, NNPBC has significantly grown its programs and offerings, which include professional development, professional practice, research, career advancement, and networking opportunities and resources. We look forward to continuing to grow our programs for our members.

Thank you to our members, the RNs, RPNs, NPs and LPNs of BC, for your dedication to advancing a united nursing voice.

X NNPBC serves and supports nurses and nurse practitioners working across the full breadth of what is today known as British Columbia, the homelands of over 200 First Nations, as well as Inuit and Métis communities. As an organization committed to anti-racism, within a profession dedicated to social justice and equity, we stand in these relationships with humility and respect.

NNPBC is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. We warmly welcome and value the contributions of members who identify as Indigenous, racialized/persons of colour, 2SLGBTQI+, persons with disabilities, and those who are marginalized. We recognize the impacts of colonialism, disrupt racism and discrimination, and practice cultural safety and humility.

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Learn more about the history of nursing professional associations in BC.

"How we got from there to here", by Sally Thorne.
 
 
 
With thanks to the BC History of Nursing Society for allowing us to post these newsletters.