Discrimination, Resilience & the Urgent Need for Change in Healthcare

I would like to take this opportunity to share a part of my story not just for myself —  but in hopes that it might spark a meaningful conversation about the barriers many of us continue to face in healthcare, especially as Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs), underrepresented groups, or members of marginalized communities.  

Not long ago, I found myself working for a reputable organization, hopeful and ready to contribute meaningfully to my community. The community who faithfully welcomed me and my two young children when we immigrated in the year 2018. Instead, I was met with exclusion, a lack of due process, and what I strongly believe as rooting from discrimination. I was terminated early in my employment during probation — without clear justification, proper communication, or support. It is also my belief that there was lack of impartial treatment by the union during the grievance process, hence denied, and further inflicting hurtful feelings.

The pain remains to this day and this experience broke something in me — emotionally, financially, and mentally. Unexpected job loss, especially coming from a vulnerable single parent like me, is perhaps nothing but a ruthless circumstance. As I pave my way through healing, this experience also somehow lit a fire. While I am currently fighting a legal battle and walking this dark path alone, I have come to realize how important it is that stories like mine be heard, and to know that I am not alone.

I believe that many IENs like myself and marginalized healthcare workers are enduring racism and systemic neglect in silence. Albeit we come with skills, passion, and a desire to serve — are often met with barriers and dehumanization in the workplace.

How can lived experience like mine be turned into advocacy and action? 

And how do we make sure no one else has to go through this alone?

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