Equity in Action: Racism, Mental Wellness, and Leadership for All Communities
In this powerful episode of Mindful Moments, Dr. Peter Morante sits down with Dr. Sheldon D. Fields — Associate Dean for Equity and Inclusion at Penn State Nese College of Nursing and President of the National Black Nurses Association — for a raw and timely conversation on equity, leadership, and the mental health realities facing communities of color.
Dr. Fields breaks down the mental and emotional impact of racism, the silent burdens carried by marginalized and immigrant communities, and the unique pressures faced by nurses of color navigating bias, microaggressions, and burnout across the profession.
The discussion goes deeper as Dr. Fields shares his insights on the U.S. Department of Education’s recent move to exclude nursing from its list of “professional degrees,” unpacking the consequences for access, financing, mental health, and the future nursing workforce — especially among underrepresented communities.
Through his lens as NBNA President, Dr. Fields also reflects on the responsibility of representation, the power of advocacy, and what true equity-driven leadership demands today.
This episode is a grounding, eye-opening, and deeply human exploration of the challenges and possibilities facing healthcare — and a call for all of us to lead with courage, compassion, and clarity.
Topics include: • Racism & structural inequities in healthcare • Mental health challenges affecting people of color and immigrants • Burnout & emotional labor among nurses of color • The DOE’s reclassification of nursing and its implications • Representation, leadership, and the future of the nursing workforce • Healing, advocacy, and actionable steps for change
Listen in and stay mindful.
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