In this special episode of Wide Awake America, host Nadine Smith welcomes Maria Smilios, the author of The Black Angels: The Untold Story of the Nurses Who Helped Cure Tuberculosis. This remarkable book sheds light on the courageous black nurses who risked their lives to desegregate New York City’s hospital system and played a pivotal role in developing the cure for tuberculosis.
Nadine shares a personal connection to the story, as her grandmother, Leola Gilmore Smith, was one of these heroic nurses at Seaview Hospital. Nadine recounts her grandmother’s pride in her work, the rigorous precautions she took to protect her family from tuberculosis, and the extraordinary dedication she exhibited throughout her career.
Maria Smilios delves into the origins of her book, from a chance discovery in a biomedical text to an eight-year journey of uncovering the hidden history of these nurses. She discusses the systemic racism these women faced, the life-threatening conditions they worked under, and the profound impact they had on the fight against tuberculosis.
The conversation touches on the historical and ongoing struggles for health equity, the parallels between past and present public health challenges, and the vital role of oral history in preserving the stories of these unsung heroes. Maria also highlights the ongoing efforts to honor these nurses, including a push for recognition in the African American Museum in Washington, D.C., and aspirations for a film adaptation of their story.
Join us for an enlightening and deeply personal exploration of a pivotal moment in medical history, the resilience of black nurses, and the enduring fight for justice and equity in healthcare.
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