Clinical Trials Uphold Diversity Amid Federal DEI Rollbacks

Despite nationwide policy reversals targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, leaders in the clinical research industry are reaffirming their commitment to equitable trial participation.

According to Clinical Trials Arena, at the Outsourcing in Clinical Trials East Coast 2025 conference, experts acknowledged the chilling effect of former President Donald Trump’s executive order dismantling federal DEI mandates. Yet, they emphasized that inclusive clinical research practices are not only enduring—but evolving.

“The spirit of what you want to do can still be represented in the organization you have,” said Kathleen Cohen, Vice President of Clinical Development Operations at Avalo Therapeutics. “You can stay on course without using the same dialogue.”

Panelists stressed the need for culturally competent trial design and community engagement. Lucas Goren, senior project manager at CISCRP, urged sponsors to collaborate with trusted local figures to build enduring, trust-based relationships—not just recruit participants. “Find out who are the pillars of that community and engage with them,” Goren said.

Simplifying and localizing trial materials emerged as a recurring theme. Goren emphasized plain language and translation processes that involve community review to ensure accuracy and cultural relevance. “You need a second, third, even fourth pair of eyes,” he said.

Cohen advocated for visual representation in trial outreach. “Make sure the patient population you are targeting is represented in the text and images,” she said, noting that inclusive visuals enhance relatability and engagement.

Speakers also highlighted the importance of expanding trial sites to historically underserved areas. Identifying local investigators can bridge access gaps and improve recruitment diversity.

Ram Raju, former senior vice president at Northwell Health, concluded with a call to reframe participant roles. “These people are not clinical trial subjects—they are your partners,” he said. “Change your mindset and focus on trust and transparency.”

Though federal DEI mandates may shift, industry leaders agree: inclusive research is a responsibility that transcends politics.