Another DEI domino has fallen, with Google being the latest major American company to eliminate its diversity, equity, and inclusion recruitment program.
The news comes in the wake of the firm’s annual corporate policy review. Google referenced the Trump administration’s recent actions toward dismantling DEI initiatives and restoring meritocracy in public and private institutions.
“We’re committed to creating a workplace where all our employees can succeed and have equal opportunities. We’ve updated our [annual investor report] language to reflect this, and as a federal contractor our teams are also evaluating changes required following recent court decisions and executive orders on this topic,” said a spokesperson for the tech giant, per the BBC.
Vocal opposition to DEI policies has been growing in recent years, with companies like Tractor Supply Co., Harley-Davidson, and Jack Daniels withdrawing from initiatives, as reported by The Dallas Express.
Following the recent midair collision near Washinton, President Trump criticized DEI policies at the Federal Aviation Administration, suggesting they may have contributed to lowering air travel safety standards.
“We must have only the highest standards for those who work in our aviation system… Only the highest aptitude – you have to be the highest intellect – and psychologically superior people, were allowed to qualify for air traffic controllers,” said Trump.
Google has remained an outspoken DEI supporter for years. Between 2021 and 2024, the company’s investor reports specifically stated they make “diversity, equity, and inclusion part of everything we do,” according to the BBC. However, as of the latest report published this week, Google has dropped the statement.
Google is joining other major U.S. companies in cutting back DEI initiatives, including Amazon, Pepsi, McDonald’s, Meta, Walmart, and Target. In some cases, activist investors are targeting firms to cut these programs.
The City of Riviera Beach Police Pension Fund in Florida led a shareholder lawsuit against Target, alleging the firm had defrauded investors by hiding the risks linked with its DEI policies. The suit points to the company’s 2023 LGBTQ clothing launch, which included items for children. The launch sparked controversy, with some groups calling for shoppers to boycott Target stores.
Last month, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, along with ten other state attorneys general, delivered a warning to financial institutions, including BlackRock, Goldman Sachs, and JPMorgan, that DEI policies could result in a lawsuit.