Facing Political Attacks on Medical Education — The Future of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Medicine

This perspective article examines the surge of U.S. legislation targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in medical education, especially initiatives supporting racially and sexually marginalized groups. The authors argue that this legislative backlash undermines efforts to improve population health by restricting DEI offices, banning educational content on systemic racism, and threatening gender-affirming care. Emphasizing the documented benefits of identity-concordant care and workforce diversity, the piece highlights the potential long-term harm to both patient outcomes and clinician representation. The authors urge institutions, policymakers, and clinicians to defend DEI initiatives as essential to equitable, evidence-based medical education and healthcare delivery.

This perspective article examines the surge of U.S. legislation targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in medical education, especially initiatives supporting racially and sexually marginalized groups. The authors argue that this legislative backlash undermines efforts to improve population health by restricting DEI offices, banning educational content on systemic racism, and threatening gender-affirming care. Emphasizing the documented benefits of identity-concordant care and workforce diversity, the piece highlights the potential long-term harm to both patient outcomes and clinician representation. The authors urge institutions, policymakers, and clinicians to defend DEI initiatives as essential to equitable, evidence-based medical education and healthcare delivery.