Google has scrapped its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) recruitment targets following an annual review of its corporate policies. The move makes Google the latest major US company to scale back commitments to hiring underrepresented groups.
The tech giant is also assessing some of its broader DEI initiatives. A Google spokesperson said the company remains committed to workplace equality. “We’re committed to creating a workplace where all our employees can succeed and have equal opportunities,” they stated.
Google’s latest annual investor report, published on Wednesday, no longer includes its previous pledge to embed DEI into all aspects of the company. Between 2021 and 2024, its reports had reinforced this commitment.
The decision aligns with a broader trend in corporate America. Meta, Amazon, Walmart, McDonald’s, and Pepsi have also rolled back DEI programmes. Apple, however, has resisted the shift, recently urging investors to reject a proposal to dismantle its diversity policies.
The shift follows increasing pressure from conservative groups and political leaders. US President Donald Trump has been a vocal critic of DEI initiatives, ordering government agencies to dismantle such policies since his return to office.
In 2020, after George Floyd’s murder, Google pledged to increase leadership representation of underrepresented groups by 30% within five years. The company claims it has made significant progress, nearly doubling the proportion of black leaders since then.
Corporate DEI initiatives have also faced legal challenges. Last week, Target was sued by shareholders, alleging it misrepresented financial risks linked to its diversity policies. The lawsuit referenced backlash over LGBTQ+ merchandise in 2023, which reportedly impacted sales and stock performance.
Amid ongoing political and legal battles, the future of corporate DEI initiatives in the US remains uncertain.
