Comparison of Halldorsdottir’s Caring Relationship Theory to Antiracism Concepts

Abstract

American nursing leaders, responding to George Floyd’s and other Black peoples’ deaths and subsequent protests, have shared the need for a new analysis of racism in nursing. Professional nursing organizations have also responded. This essay was motivated by personal reflections on racism and antiracism and the need to increase knowledge of antiracism concepts. It aligns elements of Halldorsdottir’s theory of caring on nurse–patient relationships with Kendi’s antiracism concepts. The essay examines the main concepts of Haldorsdottir’s theory of caring, selects antiracism concepts presented by Kendi, and views antiracism through the lens of the caring theory. Caring actions are proposed.