Illinois Nurses Association

The Illinois Nurses Association (INA), a nonprofit organization, is a leading professional and labor union advocating for the interests of nurses in Illinois. The association was founded in 1901 under the name Illinois Graduate Nurses Association and has since evolved through several name changes, including the Illinois State Nurses Association, to become the Illinois Nurses Association.

Mission and Activities

The INA's initial goals included establishing a Nurse Practice Act to require nurse registration and creating a Board of Nurse Examiners for the state. Over the years, its mission has expanded to include advocacy for quality wages, benefits, and working conditions for Illinois nurses. The association seeks to improve healthcare outcomes by addressing issues such as staff-to-patient ratios and advocating for better working environments.

The INA has historically focused on legislative efforts and collective bargaining to positively impact the lives of nurses and their patients. It emphasizes the importance of union involvement in securing rights and protections for nurses in the workplace.

Organizational Structure

While specific details about the INA's organizational structure are not widely documented, it operates as a union committed to creating an environment where nurses' contributions are valued. The INA involves itself in various activities such as negotiations with healthcare systems and advocating for policy changes beneficial to nurses across the state.

Notable Events and Advocacy

In recent years, the INA has been involved in several notable events, including negotiations with major healthcare systems. The association has advocated for higher wages and improved working conditions, reflecting its ongoing commitment to protecting nurses' rights and advancing patient care.

Historical Collections

Archives of the INA are housed at the Midwest Nursing History Research Center, University of Illinois at Chicago. These collections include newspaper clippings, early publications, and historical documents related to the association's development and activities over the years.

References

This article does not include external references due to format restrictions. However, information can be verified through various sources, including the Midwest Nursing History Research Center and news articles about the Illinois Nurses Association's activities.