"They're not cutting a branch. They're cutting the whole tree." Laura Hercher Defends DEI in Genomic Research and Medicine

Today Theral talks with Laura Hercher, Director of Research for Human Genetics at Sarah Lawrence College, about the growing political assault on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in scientific research. With the NIH facing sweeping budget cuts and DEI programs cancelled, Hercher makes a compelling case for why diversity isn’t just a social or moral issue—but a scientific imperative.

"What you're cutting is cancer funding. What you're cutting is Alzheimer's research. What you're cutting is funding for sick kids," Hercher warns, pushing back against the rhetoric that frames these cuts as mere "overhead reductions."

She breaks down how diversity strengthens both scientific databases and the research workforce, emphasizing that genetic studies are incomplete without diverse representation. She also addresses the political motivations behind these attacks, highlighting the broader pattern of anti-intellectualism and anti-science sentiment creeping into public policy.

Hercher closes with a powerful statement about her own institution’s commitment to DEI:"We are not changing a damn thing. We think it's right, and we're sticking to it."

Join us today and make your own voice heard if you’re concerned about the future of scientific research and equity in medicine.

Editor’s Note: Today’s show is dedicated to our late Executive Producer, Ayanna Monteverdi.

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