Google has recently revised the online presence of its Responsible AI and Human Centered Technology (RAI-HCT) team by removing references to “diversity” and “equity.”
The RAI-HCT team previously described its mission using terms like “marginalized communities,” “diverse,” “underrepresented groups,” and “equity.” These terms have now either been replaced with more generic expressions such as “all,” “varied,” and “numerous,” or omitted entirely.
This update was noted by The Midas Project, a watchdog group, marking a continuation of Google’s recent trend of retreating from diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Earlier, Google announced plans to eliminate diversity hiring targets and scrutinize its DEI programs.
Similar trends are evident across the tech industry, with companies like Amazon and Meta scaling back DEI efforts. Recently, OpenAI also removed diversity-related language from its hiring policies webpage.
These changes occur amid scrutiny from the Trump Administration, which critiques DEI as potentially “illegal.” However, not all companies are following this trend. Apple, for instance, has resisted shareholder calls to discontinue its DEI programs.
A notable concern here is the impact such reductions in DEI language and targets will have, particularly given that many of these tech giants hold contracts with federal agencies, potentially affecting their compliance and brand perception.
This development highlights a significant shift in Google’s public stance on DEI, echoing broader industry trends. It remains to be seen how these changes will affect the company’s public image and operations, especially in relation to federal contracts.
