The National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) is a professional organization dedicated to advancing and supporting the development of Black nurses and promoting healthcare equity and excellence in the Black community. The organization was founded in 1971 by Dr. Lauranne Sams, a pioneering African American nurse educator, and has since grown to become one of the largest associations of Black nurses in the United States.

The NBNA works to address the disparities in healthcare access and outcomes that disproportionately affect Black communities by advocating for policies that promote health equity and cultural competence in healthcare delivery. The organization also provides scholarships, mentorship programs, and professional development opportunities for Black nurses to help advance their careers and leadership roles in the healthcare field.

Throughout its history, the NBNA has been instrumental in advocating for diversity and inclusion in the nursing profession, as well as raising awareness about health issues that affect the Black community, such as diabetes, hypertension, and HIV/AIDS. The organization continues to be a leading voice for Black nurses and a driving force for positive change in healthcare across the country.