From May 12 to 18, we mark National Nursing Week

We mark this week by recognizing the essential role nurses play in delivering and defending public health care across Canada. 

National Nursing Week serves as an opportunity to recognize and the hard work and dedication of nurses

These workers are often the first point of contact in health care, providing critical support, advocacy, and care to patients and their families.

Nurses show leadership every day—on the front lines, in crisis situations, and through their relentless advocacy for better care and stronger public health systems. Their work has been key in navigating public health emergencies and pushing for meaningful improvements in patient care.

But the strength of the nursing workforce is under attack—stretched thin by contracting out, chronic understaffing, burnout, and disrespect from governments that refuse to invest in public care.

Nurses are too often overlooked or shut out of decisions that directly affect their work, despite being the backbone of the health care system.

The Federation of Labour has long called on health care institutions and policymakers to listen to nurses.

This week, we extend our deepest gratitude to all nurses for their unwavering commitment to health and healing. Your work not only changes lives—it holds the system together.

Let us recognize and celebrate the power of nurses—not just this week, but every day.