Overcoming Barriers of Incorporating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives in Nursing Schools

Background:To create an inclusive environment in nursing education, challenges to incorporating change must be addressed including institutional racism, power differences, privilege, and implicit biases (O'Connor et al.). This article discusses barriers that interfere with the implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within schools of nursing and offers strategies for building a culture of inclusivity at academic institutions. Method: This article is based on factual, researched, and firsthand information. Results: Administrators and stakeholders need to determine how DEI is incorporated into their institution's mission, vision, and values. Forming a DEI council that consists of equal representation from faculty, staff, and students will foster inclusiveness to incorporate DEI initiatives within schools of nursing and will allow outcomes to be measured. Conclusion: Barriers should be identified and removed to make schools of nursing a safe and inclusive zone for faculty, staff, and students.