Powerful Stuff or Powder Puff?

The “pink-collar” term debuted in the 1970s as a spin-off of blue-collar and white-collar stereotypes. Merriam-Webster defines pink-collar as “of, relating to, or constituting a class of employees in occupations (as nursing and clerical jobs) traditionally held by women.” The term is most often applied to such service-related roles as teachers, day care workers, receptionists, waitresses and nurses. In addition to referring to once female-dominated jobs, the term originally suggested low education levels and poor salaries.

In recent years, pink has emerged as a powerful color for both genders. In some cases, pink continues to represent strictly female options (such as with certain lines of lingerie or the Codepink peace organization). Pink also played a dominant role in Anna Nicole Smith’s extravagant funeral. But, pink is increasingly finding acceptance among both genders. Men frequently don pins shaped like pink ribbons for breast cancer awareness. Recently, I have noted a definite trend of male newscasters including pink among their wardrobes and accessories. Can the power of pink extend beyond gender stereotypes? Is it a positive image for nurses?

If nurses are to retain and expand our professional image, we must be taken seriously by the health care industry, including administrators, colleagues and other members of the health care team. We also need for society to value our role as well-educated and accomplished professionals. Meanwhile, the face of nursing is consistently evolving as a growing percentage of men enter the profession. Professionals of both genders are entering nursing from other fields. These new faces bring fresh perspectives and diversity to the nursing profession. Has our profession evolved into the white collar arena? Should blue, white, and pink collar stereotypes continue? Tell us what you think.