By Angela Ruhter, RN
It was an honor to attend the Global Nurses Solidarity Assembly (GNSA) in October 2025. The gathering of nurses was inspiring and humbling. I met other nurses from around the world. I thought about what I wanted to tell MNA nurses, and then thought “why not let them speak.” This is what nurses in the United States and around the Globe wanted to say to Minnesota Nurses on topics important to our profession:
We Have the Power
“To my Minnesota nurses: Do not be afraid to get what you want. Management wants you to be afraid. Make them afraid of your power to stand together to get what you need to take care of your patients and yourselves and your family.” Alan, Florida RN
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have the chance to connect with leaders from some of the most influential organizations — many of whom are inspiring women. One of the most unforgettable highlights was witnessing talented actors bring The People Speak to life, portraying powerful voices from history and literature. This experience has filled my heart and mind with knowledge, inspiration, and renewed energy. I’m excited to bring these insights back to my colleagues and share what I’ve learned.” California R
Nurses Stand Together
“It does not matter where in the world we work, nurses face the same issues: safe staffing workplace violence, workplace bullying, etc.. It is important that, as nurses, we speak up. There is solidarity in numbers.” New York RN
“I want MN nurses to know that at the GNSA, I learned that I am not alone. RNs everywhere love nursing and hate their jobs. What do we do about that? We fight.” Terry, LouisianaRN
“To my MN nurses: It has truly been a gift to join the Nursing Union community. Do not be afraid to speak up and join together. Together we are a powerful force for change for the better.” Lauren, Florida RN
Global Nurses Advocating
“What an amazing experience to be in the company of such fierce advocates! I am so inspired and in awe of the commitment and solidarity of NNU…NNU rocks.” Darlene Jackson, RN, President of the Manitoba nurses’ union
“Through this meeting it is clear we all have the same challenges: violence, safe staffing, etc.. In my province, all nurses (unless in management) are unionized. In order to work in Nova scotia as a staff nurse, you must join a union. That applies to all healthcare workers.“ –Nova Scotia Nurses Union
“The Korean Health and Medical Workers’ Union (KHMU) are working on the ratio of nurses and healthcare workers for safety in the workplace. We entered into negotiations with the government and reached an agreement through a general strike on the platform of the scope of nursing duties and staffing ratios.” (Translated by Google) — President Choi Hee-sun of KHMU, South Korea
“In order to provide safe and reliable medical service, we need appropriate staffing and wages that match the type and amount of work we do. Let’s fight together!” (Translated) — Etsuko Sasaki, President of the Japan Federation of Medical Workers’ Union
Recognizing Our Humanity
“As we go through this struggle for our rights, safe staffing, fair pay, know that others across this globe are feeling the same. We must be resilient and vote for justice for all. We must stand in solidarity as union nurses and human beings for what is right and for our patients whoever they may be. Nurses stand in solidarity.
Going to GNSA helps nurses realize that many of the challenges and struggles we face in nursing are not unique to a facility, community, state, or country. Nursing attracts a special person and this is just as true in NY as it is in MN and across the world. NY nurses are always ready to stand up and fight for what is right. We value these gatherings so we can meet fellow nurses from all walks of life. In a country where there is so much division, nurses can join together and show that there is a beautiful unity in this valued profession.” New York RN
A Culture of Respect
“I want you to know that you are valuable, your patients need you, and no matter what anyone says, there is no healthcare without you. Stand on your values and demand respect! Unite and reside in your strength. Together you can achieve anything! We face similar battles for safe staffing ratios, appropriate compensation, self-care, work-life balance and mostly time for our patients.” New York RN
“Solidarity and collaboration among nurses in different specialty areas builds everyone up and creates a culture of mutual respect. Also working with other service lines (like housekeeping and dining services coalitions) benefits RNs”. Tom H, North Carolina RN
“Global Nurses United is about unity, solidarity and building a national and global movement through resilience and resistance. Geographical boundaries should not be a hinderance, but a cause that unites us. Taking on one of us is taking on all of us. Together we rise and when we fight, we win. Solidarity.” New York RN
Advocating for Our Patients
“MN nurses: The nursing union has restored my hope in this career. Do not be afraid to stand up for what is right. Together we are Union Strong” Florida RN
“We are all fighting the same fight for our patients, safe working conditions, fair pay, and healthcare for all. There are too many forces out there trying to divide and isolate people from all walks of life, but the message today, tomorrow, and every day is an injury to one is an injury to all. I’m reminded of the importance of community, the importance of solidarity in protecting our communities, and the urgency to stand together in solidarity, bringing communities together to protect our healthcare institutions and the communities we serve, though out the US. We are all fighting the same fight. Let’s focus on our similarities rather than our differences. In solidarity we fight!
Our mission to advocate for our patients, ourselves, and the broader community has never felt more vital. The issues we face are vast and complex — from climate change to global conflicts like Gaza, to the challenges within our own healthcare system. And yet, I’m reminded that we, as nurses, have a profound impact on all of it. This event has motivated me to become even more active in our CNA and to continue using my voice to make a difference.” California RN
