On September 19, the House approved, by voice vote, a concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 386) sponsored by Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) honoring Mary Eliza Mahoney, America’s first professionally trained African-American nurse.
Ms. Mahoney devoted her time and efforts unselfishly to the National Association of Colored Graduate Nurses, and made exemplary contributions to local and national professional nursing organizations. She further advanced the nursing profession by fostering high standards of nursing practice and confronting issues affecting professional nurses, such as the shortage of nurses.
Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX) stated, “Despite the odds, [Ms. Mahoney] proved that African-Americans could successfully enter into the world of professional nursing. She continues to be a source of inspiration to all nurses.” She added, “At a time in our country when there is a nurse-shortage crisis, it is important to acknowledge the service and dedication of an outstanding American nurse. More than one million new and replacement nurses will be needed by 2012. Ms. Mahoney is a prime example of a professional woman who values and advocates for education, civil rights, and giving something of yourself for your community and for your nation.”
