by The Inquiry

ANN ARBOR, MI — Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners has officially proclaimed May 6 through May 12, 2025, as National Nurses Week 2025, passing a heartfelt resolution during its most recent meeting. The resolution honors the profession’s historical significance, modern impact, and enduring trust from the American public.

Commissioner Katie Scott introduced the resolution during the May board meeting, emphasizing the critical role nurses continue to play in Michigan communities. The measure recognizes not only local nurses but also legendary pioneers such as Mary Eliza Mahoney — the first Black professional nurse in the United States — and Lillian Wald, founder of the Henry Street Settlement in New York.

According to Commissioner Scott, nurses walk four to five miles per 12-hour shift on average, more than twice what most Americans walk daily—an often-overlooked example of the physical and emotional stamina required in the profession.

“For over two decades, Americans have ranked nurses as the most trusted profession in Gallup polls,” the resolution noted, citing nurses’ unwavering reputation for “honesty, ethics, and compassionate care.”

The resolution pays specific tribute to nurses in Washtenaw County’s Public Health Department and Community Mental Health Agency, both of which provide critical services to some of the region’s most vulnerable residents. Nurses are also lauded for their growing influence in broader leadership roles, including hospital CEOs, public health directors, and policy advisers.

7 Ways Washtenaw County is Honoring Nurses This Week:

1. Formal Proclamation – May 6–12 officially recognized as National Nurses Week 2025 in Washtenaw County.
2. Historical Honors – Celebrates trailblazers like Linda Richards, Lillian Wald, and Mabel Keaton Staupers.
3. Public Acknowledgment – Nurses in local public health roles specifically uplifted for their commitment and care.
4. Community Recognition – Resolution to be shared directly with county-employed nurses as a sign of gratitude.
5. Commitment to Equity – Reaffirms the role of nurses in promoting health equity, disease prevention, and community resilience.
6. Cultural Leadership – Highlights nurses’ evolving leadership roles in research, policy, and even elected office.
7. Ongoing Appreciation – Commissioners vowed to uplift and celebrate nurses not just during this week but year-round.

Here’s my take — National Nurses Week 2025 isn’t just a ribbon-cutting photo op. It’s a reminder that the backbone of our entire healthcare system is underpaid, overworked, and still carrying the load. Four to five miles per shift? That’s more than some lawmakers walk in a week — and without the benefit of lobbyists, security details, or catered luncheons.

We hold these truths to be self-evident: that nurses are there when your newborn cries, your mother passes, and your nation stumbles through a pandemic. They don’t need another coffee mug. They need healthcare, hazard pay, and a voice in every room where policy is written.

So this proclamation? It’s a start. But let’s not let admiration be the end of the conversation. Let’s legislate like we mean it.

Eyes open. Voices loud.

Check out more news from around Michigan here.