In 2020, the glaring topic besides COVID-19 was racism. It's disappointing and sad that a nation such as the US is still battling racism/racial tensions. The infamous glass ceiling still exists, but it's now made of plexiglass. Some organizations do have minorities at the corporate table; however, a seat at the table doesn't indicate a voice to plan the menu. Organizations are struggling with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and there's a need to incorporate these concepts into the nursing curriculum to address healthcare disparities and prepare nurses to carry out mission-focused care. Applying the concepts to have a diverse work population, ensure equity among team members, and make all feel a part of the team through inclusion evades some leaders. Why are we still talking about racism as if it were a new phenomenon?

The removal of the plexiglass barrier may seem like a trivial point to some, but for others it's a daily reality. Speaking from a personal point of view as a multidegreed individual and a nurse with 24 years' experience, I can tell you that the plexiglass exists. A personal experience of jobs/positions going to others with more powerful connections more than likely didn't account for DEI. Our society has much to offer all; however, not everyone gets the chance to experience the DEI that organizations continue to attempt to adapt and adopt. Plexiglass is useful for protection, such as in the battle against COVID-19, but there's a need to heat our conversations and actions to cut through the plexiglass ceiling when it comes to DEI-one person, one organization, and one community at a time.

-Venecia Holmes, DBA, MHA, MSN, CMSRN, NE-BC, SHRM-CP