This statement is by T1International’s Federal Working Group, volunteer leaders from across the United States taking action on federal policies that affect people with diabetes.

For people living with type 1 diabetes, insulin is as essential as oxygen. Our lives depend not only on access to medicines and technologies, but also on the scientists, clinicians, and researchers whose work helps improve diabetes care, advance innovation, and expand understanding of the challenges faced by our community.

Scientific progress depends on the ability to ask difficult questions, share evidence, challenge assumptions, and engage in open dialogue. When researchers feel unable to speak openly about evidence, policy, or public health concerns, the consequences extend far beyond academic institutions. They affect people living with diabetes.

At the American Diabetes Association's 85th Scientific Sessions in New Orleans, respected clinicians and scientists were removed after sharing a published editorial on science and public policy. Reports surrounding this event have raised concerns within the diabetes community about academic freedom, scientific independence, and the ability of researchers to participate in open discussion.

Whether in research, clinical care, or public policy, progress requires environments where evidence can be discussed without fear of retaliation. Scientific advancement has always necessitated the freedom to challenge prevailing views, investigate emerging concerns, and engage in respectful disagreement.

When scientists self-censor, important questions may go unasked. When institutions discourage open dialogue, opportunities for learning and innovation may be lost. When evidence is constrained, people living with diabetes ultimately bear the consequences through delayed progress, reduced transparency, and missed opportunities to improve care.

People with diabetes have a direct stake in protecting scientific independence. Breakthroughs in treatment, technology, prevention, and care have all been made possible because researchers were able to pursue evidence wherever it led.

As a patient-led organization, T1International believes that people living with diabetes deserve healthcare systems, policies, and scientific institutions that value transparency, integrity, and open inquiry. Patients benefit when researchers can speak openly, share findings honestly, and participate in robust scientific debate.

T1International does not accept funding from pharmaceutical companies or other entities whose financial interests could influence our advocacy. This independence allows us to speak clearly and consistently in support of policies and practices that prioritize the needs of people living with diabetes.

T1International will continue our history of speaking truth to power without fear of recrimination. We will amplify the voices of those who seek to do the same. We stand with researchers, clinicians, healthcare professionals, and patient advocates who support scientific integrity and evidence-based dialogue. We believe that protecting scientific independence is essential to protecting the health and well-being of people living with diabetes.

Scientific innovation requires courage. Patients depend on it. Patients demand it.

Take Action

• Support organizations and institutions that defend scientific integrity and academic freedom.
• Stay informed about policies that affect diabetes research, healthcare access, and public health.
• Engage with elected officials and decision-makers on issues that impact people living with diabetes.
• Amplify evidence-based information and support open scientific dialogue.
• Share your story about why diabetes research and innovation matter.
• https://www.t1international.com/volunteer/