The National Science Foundation (NSF) has terminated over 400 active research awards, focusing on projects related to diversity, equity, inclusion (D.E.I.), and misinformation, following a review influenced by political scrutiny. The decision, which surprised many researchers, comes after an attempted freeze on grant payments by the Trump administration, although NSF claims the cancellations do not violate any legal orders. This move has sparked criticism from various sectors, as it contradicts existing laws mandating support for underrepresented groups in STEM fields. The cancellations are part of a broader shift in NSF priorities, aiming to fund research that benefits all Americans without preferring specific groups. The abrupt termination has left researchers like Casey Fiesler and Ember McCoy without explanations and disrupted ongoing scientific endeavors, raising concerns about the long-term impact on American scientific leadership and community-focused initiatives.

NSF's decision to cancel over 400 grants, particularly targeting projects associated with D.E.I. and misinformation, follows months of scrutiny and political pressure, notably from a report by Senator Ted Cruz identifying 'questionable projects'.

Researchers, including Casey Fiesler, were taken by surprise as their grants, some believed to be secure, were terminated without explanation, suspected due to the mention of certain keywords like 'misinformation' in their abstracts.

The cancellations align with a broader agency shift in priorities, focusing on research that creates opportunities for all Americans and avoids prioritizing specific groups, amidst concerns it might infringe on constitutional rights related to misinformation.

The NSF's actions, praised by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) for cutting 'wasteful' grants, have been criticized for undermining existing laws, such as the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act, which mandates support for underrepresented groups in STEM.

The abrupt cessation of funding has disrupted various research projects, including community-focused studies on air pollution and STEM education for underrepresented groups, leading to fears about the broader impact on academia and U.S. scientific leadership.

Critics argue that these cancellations represent a significant setback for programs that aim to make science more inclusive and reflective of American diversity, potentially ceding scientific leadership to other countries like China.

Despite the opportunity for scientists to dispute funding decisions historically, those affected by the recent terminations have been informed that the decisions are final and not open to appeal, exacerbating the uncertainty and disruption caused.