Google has joined a growing list of major corporations dropping their diversity recruitment targets, a decision spurred by increased scrutiny and changing political dynamics.
Google Ends Diversity Recruitment Goals Amid Backlash
Google Ends Diversity Recruitment Goals Amid Backlash
Google's decision signals a retreat from DEI commitments as pressure mounts from conservative circles.
In a significant policy shift, Google has become the latest major U.S. corporation to remove its diversity recruitment goals. This development emerges as many big firms face mounting pressure to reconsider their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategies, especially in light of recent political changes in the U.S. According to sources familiar with the matter, this decision was reached following Google's annual corporate policy review.
For years, the tech giant has been a vocal advocate for increasing representation within its workforce, particularly following the protests after George Floyd's murder in 2020. Google's revisited commitment was previously highlighted in public statements aiming to enhance leadership representation by 30% from underrepresented groups by 2024. However, the latest investor report strikingly lacks any reaffirmation of this commitment, leaving some industry observers surprised.
Reflecting on the changing times, a Google spokesperson reiterated the company's ongoing dedication to creating an inclusive workplace that provides equal opportunities for all employees. This echoing sentiment comes as the company reassesses its DEI programs in light of recent legal rulings and executive orders under President Donald Trump, who has been vocally opposed to such initiatives since returning to the White House.
This move aligns Google with other corporate giants like Meta, Amazon, and Walmart, which have similarly rolled back their DEI measures. Apple, on the other hand, has notably resisted this movement, advocating for the maintenance of diversity goals. Meanwhile, Target's recent legal troubles linked to its DEI policies highlight the increasing backlash companies are facing regarding their diversity initiatives.
The growing trend indicates a wider reconsideration of DEI policies amid shifting political and social landscapes in the U.S., suggesting these changes will continue to reshape corporate environments moving forward.
