Marnash Cetz walks us through attending nursing school during a global pandemic. How she almost walked away from the nursing profession within just a couple of months but inevitably found her way to rewrite her future. And how her religious community provided solace for her to process living in an America rot with white supremacy.

It’s a conversation that epitomizes the fact that Black Care Matters.

Nurse Megan Ludeña delves deeper into the various dimensions of care. She reflects on how she tends to herself and also how supporting others, irrespective of their background, became not only her avenue for human connection, but also her very purpose in life. She unveils the challenges of this profound realization, while growing up in Oregon navigating prejudicial roadblocks for biracial children like her.

It’s a conversation resonating with honest and profound strength, right here on Black Care Matters.

Danaya Hall is the former president and founder of the Alliance of Black Nurses Association of Oregon. Her passion for healthcare began during her high school years in the Bay Area, during a time deeply affected by the AIDS epidemic. This instilled in her the importance of showing up for others, no matter the situation. Her work ensures the sacrifices of those we've lost are never forgotten. Join us as we delve into her inspiring story and the impact it holds, only on Black Care Matters.

Erica Bailey – the president of the Alliance of Black Nurse Association of Oregon – walks us through her journey growing up biracial in southern California. How the challenges she faced dealing with colorism informed her nonlinear journey over 13 years in the nursing profession. And what it means to her to be a seeker, always on the lookout for emotional growth in every aspect of her life.

It’s a fulfilling conversation packed with unwavering honesty, only on Black Care matters.

Violet shares with us her unique path as a nurse dedicated to community health. From the hospital to the homes of mothers caring for new babies, to the cafeteria of elementary schools in East County Portland–Violet is a fierce and joyful advocate for positive health outcomes in the Black community. Her energy hits like a pumpkin pie on a holiday! You don’t want to miss this conversation on Black Care Matters.

Ron walks us through why he was inspired to make his way into healthcare as a young Black man. How he’s been forced to confront this system built off racism throughout his career, and the especially potent flavor of that system here in Oregon. It's a conversation full of laughter and conviction that you don't want to miss. This is where "Black Care Matters."

Welcome to "Black Care Matters." The show where we honor the unique experiences of Black nurses working in the Pacific Northwest.