John D. Sailer, an expert on federal diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, discusses the NIH First initiative, a substantial investment aimed at promoting DEI in academic hiring. He tackles the recent removal of mandatory diversity statements at prestigious universities and its implications for free expression in academia. Sailer also explores legal challenges tied to DEI practices under the Civil Rights Act and highlights state-level resistance to DEI initiatives, advocating for a shift towards academic freedom and objective research.