Before we dive into conversations about nursing, identity, leadership, and scholarship, we wanted to begin with the question at the heart of this series: What do Pride and Praxis mean to us?

In this episode, we explore how Pride represents authenticity, visibility, community, and the courage to be ourselves, while Praxis reflects the process of turning reflection, knowledge, and values into meaningful action. Together, these concepts shape how we show up as nurses, scholars, leaders, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Join us as we share the inspiration behind this project and discuss why creating space for thoughtful, evidence-informed conversations feels so important today.

We look forward to learning alongside you throughout Pride Month and beyond.

In this episode of Pride and Praxis, we sit down with Monica McLemore to explore the current social, political, and healthcare landscape through her reproductive justice and activist lens. Dr. McLemore reflects on her journey toward finding the confidence to take up space, use her voice, and advocate for equity in nursing and healthcare. Together, we discuss resilience, the importance of community, and how to cultivate joy, purpose, and hope during challenging times. This conversation offers inspiration and practical wisdom for anyone seeking to lead authentically and navigate uncertainty with courage.

How does advocacy begin? This episode explores the legacy of the Stonewall Uprising, Rochester's LGBTQ+ history, and Albert Bandura's Self-Efficacy Theory to examine how courageous acts inspire others to become advocates. We honor the leadership of Black transgender women, including Marsha P. Johnson, whose activism helped shape the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, and reflect on how their legacy continues to empower communities to lead, advocate, and create change.