After Amazon and Meta, Google scraps its diversity hiring goals
What's the story
Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc, has opted to scrap its goal of increasing hiring from historically underrepresented groups.
The tech giant is also reevaluating some of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
The move brings Google in line with other tech firms such as Amazon and Meta that have recently dialed back their DEI efforts amid criticism from conservative circles.
Statement
Commitment to workplace equality
In response to the news, Google said, "We're committed to creating a workplace where all our employees can succeed and have equal opportunities."
The company has been reviewing its programs aimed at promoting this goal over the past year.
As a federal contractor in the US, Google is also assessing changes necessitated by recent court rulings and executive orders related to DEI.
Report revision
Changes in Google's annual report
In its latest annual report to the US Securities and Exchange Commission, Google omitted a statement affirming its commitment to making DEI part of everything it does.
The statement was seen in annual reports from 2021 to 2023.
The firm is now reviewing recent court decisions and Donald Trump's executive orders aimed at limiting DEI measures within the government and federal contractors.
Diversity data
Google's diversity report and future plans
Google's 2024 diversity report revealed that it had met its goal of increasing hiring from underrepresented groups by 30% in 2022.
The same report found that among its leadership, 5.7% identified as Black and 7.5% identified as Latino.
However, Fiona Cicconi, Google's head of HR, said in a memo, "In the future we will no longer have aspirational goals."
Industry trend
Tech giants roll back DEI programs
Earlier this month, Meta Platforms announced it was discontinuing its DEI programs related to hiring, training, and supplier selection.
Amazon also revealed plans to phase out "outdated programs and materials" associated with representation and inclusion.
These changes come amid a wave of criticism from conservative groups. They also argue that DEI programs are an obstacle to response efforts for crises like the severe wildfires in Los Angeles.