Google has scaled back its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives following a review of President Donald Trump’s executive orders aimed at reversing federal government DEI policies. The move comes as the search giant reassesses its programs, citing recent court decisions and executive orders on this topic.
In 2020, Google set a goal to increase historically underrepresented groups in leadership by 30% by 2025. However, the company has now slashed hiring targets intended to achieve this goal. Google’s decision follows other major US companies, including Meta and Amazon, which have also retreated from DEI commitments.
The reversal is seen as a sign of the changing times in Silicon Valley, where Google once positioned itself as a DEI champion. The company had previously committed to creating a workplace where all employees could succeed and have equal opportunities. Despite efforts to increase diversity, women of color at Google continue to face challenges, with white men outnumbering both groups among executives.
Google’s move is part of a broader trend in the tech industry, which has struggled to attract and retain underrepresented groups. A 2021 USA TODAY analysis found significant disparities in management and professional roles between white employees and those from minority backgrounds. The company’s decision to pull back from DEI initiatives may signal a shift away from its long-held commitment to increasing diversity and inclusion.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/money/2025/02/05/google-dei-retreat-trump/78258629007