Compulsory Heterosexuality and Lesbian Invisibility in Nursing

Diverse Representation in Nursing Leadership: Developing a Shared Position Statement on Allyship

Diversity initiatives are being implemented widely within academia and society more broadly; however, the School of Nursing (SoN) at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, is taking an innovative approach. Faculty members recognized the need to support students at the graduate and undergraduate levels from Black, Indigenous, LGBTQ2S (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Two-Spirit), and International communities in a student-led initiative with the mission to promote diversity, inclusion, and equity within the SoN. This coalition seeks to offer students who are often rendered invisible within the academy and society more broadly in relation to dominant cultures and normative expectations an opportunity to build relationships and expose shared histories of oppression in such a way that issues of social justice are uncovered. In response to nursing students and faculty who self-identify as members of dominant groups and who sought inclusion as allies, the leaders of the student community groups recognized a need to develop a position statement on allyship. The collaboration that transpired between the four groups of communities to develop the position statement led to the formation of the Student Equity Coalition. This article begins with the authors' definition of allyship, followed by a description of the context in which this unique initiative is taking place, the rationale behind developing a shared position statement on allyship, and the significance of this work in positioning and supporting nursing students of minority status as emerging nurse leaders.

The mental health needs and concerns of older people who identify as LGBTQ+: A narrative review of the international evidence

AIMS

To synthesize the best available evidence on the experiences and perceptions of older people who identify as LGBTQ + regarding their mental health needs and concerns.

DESIGN

A narrative review and critical appraisal of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods studies.

DATA SOURCES

A systematic search was undertaken across all of the databases including PsycINFO, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Sociological Abstracts. International studies published in academic journals in the English language, from January 1995 - January 2019 were appraised. Studies had to involve older people identifying as LGBTQ + and who had experiences mental health issues.

REVIEW METHODS

Fourteen papers were selected for inclusion in the systematic review. A narrative analysis of the papers was used by synthesizing the key findings and organizing them into themes and concepts.

RESULTS

Following analysis of the data, the identified themes were: (a) LGBTQ + identity issues (b) risk and vulnerability factors, (c) coping strategies and resilience, (d) interventions and supports.

CONCLUSION

This review highlights key mental health-related issues that need to be taken into account in the creation and provision of appropriate, responsive and inclusive supports and services.

IMPACT

What were the main findings? Some older people who identify as LGBTQ + have experienced stigma, discrimination, and minority stress. However, many have developed coping strategies and resilience while others have developed mental health issues. It is necessary to have in place appropriate interventions and supports to effectively meet the needs of this population. Where and on whom will the research have impact? The review has significant implications for health and nursing policy and inform developments in nursing practice and nurse education.