Last November, Nursology.net initiated a blog category – “action defending democracy” with a post authored by Dr. Robin Walter titled “The Value of Integrating Nursing Theories in an Era of Legislative Censorship.” On this day that commemorates the adoption of the United States Declaration of Independence, we invite Nursology.net visitors to reflect on these blogs, and consider responding to the possibilities for doing our part, as nurses, to take needed action at this time when the human rights of so many are under assault. You can see the “action defending democracy” blogs by selecting this category in the sidebar. (Also see my 2023 Blog post reflecting on the complicated meanings of this holiday.)

Why is democracy important for nursing? As messy and flawed as it can be, this form of government at least claims to value equality and equity for all people. If we, as nurses, claim to value health and well-being for all, democracy must be defended. There are many other explanations that delve in to deep and significant matters, but this single simple explanation is sufficient, in my view, to call us to action when democracy is under threat at any level.

There are many ways to act in defense of democracy, and fundamental nursing values lie at the heart of our action – including self care, hope, and supporting one another as we reach for health for individuals, families and communities. It is an overwhelming challenge, but there are many things that we as individuals can do. Ruth Ben-Ghiat, historian and author of the book “Strongmen“, provides five maxims for surviving and thriving in the face of authoritarianism:

• Participate in non-violent protest and public resistance. Protest and resistance is essential, and effective, in ultimately defeating authoritarianism and protecting democracy. Study and learn the methods and principles of non-violent action, and participate in any way you can – public speeches, letters of opposition, declarations, petitions, marches, boycotts, sit-ins, vigils, and refusal to obey unjust laws and policies.  For inspiration, read and re-read Sally Thorne’s recent editorial in “Nursing Inquiry – “We Were Made for These Times.”
• Know that this is a long game, and be prepared to keep at it for weeks, perhaps months on end.
• Use any and all forms of opposition you can now, knowing that some of these ways of opposition may not be available in the future. Use every method possible while you can.
• Join with others in community. This long game can be disheartening and discouraging – and in your community you all will provide inspiration and hope for one another over time.
• Model in any way you can the values that you want to see in the world. Opposition only goes so far – it is important to know and demonstrate what you want instead. Write using as many “banned words” as possible, in as many places as you. The more you use these words, the less chance of forgetting what they mean. In your workplace, and in your family, and in your social circles reflect on the ways you interact and enact the principles of democratic life-ways in every way possible. For example, make sure everyone involved is participating in whatever your group is doing, particularly those who tend to be overlooked or ignored. Encourage those who are not speaking to share their ideas and thoughts. Make sure any decisions you are part of making have the input of those who are in the minority. Use Peace and Power as a guide for your group’s process.

Be aware of the many groups organizing for resistance and change, and join or support them in any way you can! Here are a few suggestions:

Nurses Shift Change

The Truth About Nursing

NurseManifest Declaration of Solidarity and Resistance

Indivisible

50501

Source discussing the significance of the U.S. Declaration on Independence:

Allen, Danielle S. (2015). Our Declaration: A Reading of the Declaration of Independence in Defense of Equality. Liveright Publishing Corporation.

Take inspiration from these examples of nurses defending democracy!

Iheduru-Anderson, K., Waite, R., & Murray, T. A. (2025). The bastardization of DEIA: Regressing decades of progress in nursing and healthcare. Nursing Inquiry, 32(3), e70027. https://doi.org/10.1111/nin.70027

Chinn, P. L. (2025, May 13). Are You Being Censored? Writer’s Camp. https://writers-camp.org/2025/05/13/are-you-being-censored/

Washington State Nurses Association  Statement on lawsuit to stop deletion of vital public health and science data