A Right to Vote: A Case Study in Nursing Advocacy for Public Policy Reform

Abram Oudshoorn

doi:10.25071/2291-5796.27

Authors

Abram Oudshoorn Western University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25071/2291-5796.27

Keywords:

advocacy, political action, policy, public policy, nursing

Abstract

In February 2014, the Government of Canada under Stephen Harper introduced the ‘Fair Elections Act’. This reform to the elections act removed provisions for access to voting for individuals lacking certain forms of identification. Noting that this would have a disproportionate impact on people experiencing homelessness, nursing advocates joined with other activists to try to prevent then subsequently overturn this legislation. The purpose of this paper is to explore the 93^rd competency of the College of Nurses of Ontario, “Advocates and promotes healthy public policy and social justice,” by unpacking a case example of advocacy for voting rights. This paper addresses the challenges faced by nurses in doing public policy advocacy and concludes with lessons learned. Fulfilling our college mandated requirement to be politically active means ensuring that public policies are just, equitable, and reflective of the progressive values of Nursing.

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Author Biography

Abram Oudshoorn, Western University

Dr. Abe Oudshoorn, RN, PhD is an Assistant Professor in the School of Nursing at the University of Western Ontario. Dr. Oudshoorn's research focuses on creating health equity through transforming health and social systems, with a particular focus on preventing and ending homelessness. Dr. Oudshoorn does specific research with youth, people living with mental health concerns, women (cis and trans), and newcomers.

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