When the NFL Stands for Diversity and Science Folds, We Have a Problem
When the NFL Defends Diversity More Than Science, What Does That Say About Us?
Let’s get this straight: The NFL—yes, the multibillion-dollar football league known for its concussion scandals and ownership controversies—is now defending Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) more boldly than the American scientific community.
Let that sink in.
While research institutions and scientific associations, buckle under political pressure and quietly dismantle DEI programs, the NFL is standing firm.
Commissioner Roger Goodell recently reaffirmed the league’s commitment to DEI, making it clear that diversity is not up for debate—even as politicians take aim at it.
Meanwhile, leading science agencies? They’re folding, like a pancake. Diversity offices are being shut down. DEI language is disappearing from websites. They are openly turning their backs on colleagues from diverse backgrounds who have become targets under this new administration.
The institutions that claim to pursue truth and progress are choosing silence instead of taking a stand.
But Let’s be clear: When the NFL is outpacing science in defending DEI, something is deeply wrong.
Why Is Football Doing What Science Won’t?
For all its flaws, the NFL understands something that the scientific community seems to have forgotten—diversity is not a political trend. It’s a strategic advantage.
Despite mounting political pressure, the NFL continues to expand and defend itsDEI initiatives , reinforcing inclusive hiring practices, strengthening minority-focused coaching fellowships, and upholding the systemic accountability measures it established across all 32 teams over five years ago
Yet, over in the world of science, institutions that should be leading the charge on equity are instead dismantling progress in real-time.
Programs and organizations designed to increase access and representation in science, research, and medicine are being erased without a fight.
The scientific community’s willingness to sacrifice their own colleagues in the name of "protecting science," while failing to recognize that the very institution itself is at risk, reveals what they truly value—and what they believe—at the core of this crisis.
The irony? These same institutions demand "evidence-based science and decision-making " while ignoring decades upon decades of research proving that diverse teams create better science.
So, what message does this send?
That scientific progress is only for the privileged?
That inclusion is optional?
That when power is challenged, even academia will cave?
What the Science and Health Communities Must Do—Now
Enough with the silence. The science and health sectors must step up immediately or risk losing the credibility they claim to uphold.
Rebuild What Was Dismantled – Reinstate DEI offices and strengthen their power. No half-measures.
Refuse to be Politically Complacent – Issue public commitments to DEI and stand firm in the face of external pressure.
Put DEI in the Budget – If funding disappears when times get tough, it was never a real priority. Secure long-term financial commitments to DEI programs.
Speak Up—Loudly – Scientists love to say, “Let the data speak.” Well, the data is clear—diversity makes science better. So why are so many institutions staying quiet?
The Silence is Deafening
If you work in medicine, research, or academia and you're staying silent while DEI programs are being erased, your silence is a statement.
You’re saying you can live with an exclusionary system.
You’re saying that football understands inclusion better than you do.
You’re saying that progress is optional when it's inconvenient.
Is that really the legacy you want?
The NFL isn’t perfect. But right now, it's leading in a way the scientific community refuses to.
It’s time for science to catch up.
The silence is DEAFENING. Totally agree.