February 2021 marks the 45th annual black history month here in Canada. UNA Local 115 Communications Committee would like to take time to recognize one historical nurse who has made a difference in Canadian nursing history, and represents the profession we all are a part of to this day.

Bernice Redmon, born and raised in Ontario, was the first black Canadian nurse to practice in Public Health in Canada. During the 1940’s, when Bernice was looking to enter the profession of nursing, black women were declined admission to Canadian nursing schools. Bernice, like numerous other women, decided to break the barriers to obtaining an education and pursuing a career in the field of nursing . She set out on obtaining her diploma which she received from a Virginia State School based out of the United States. 

At the time of completing her diploma in 1945, Bernice returned to Canada where she would practice public health in Nova Scotia. Later on, she went on to be the first black nurse appointed to the Victorian Order of Nurses in Canada. 

Bernice, like many other black women, faced numerous barriers that limited her ability to learn and practice here in Canada. As we celebrate black history month, we ask that members recognize and appreciate trailblazers like Bernice of the nursing profession.

Article By Jesse Minnis RN