Google Shifts Strategy on Diversity Hiring Goals

In a significant move, Alphabet Inc.'s Google LLC has announced the elimination of its diversity hiring objectives, alongside a comprehensive review of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. This decision mirrors actions taken by other leading tech companies, as reported by the Wall Street Journal on Wednesday.

Background and Implications

An internal email revealed that Google will cease its practice of hiring more individuals from underrepresented groups to enhance workforce diversity. This strategy was initially adopted in 2020, with the aim of increasing the representation of underrepresented groups in leadership positions by 30% by 2025, in response to the racial justice movement following the death of George Floyd.

Legal and Policy Considerations

Google also mentioned its ongoing evaluation of program changes necessary to align with recent court rulings and executive orders issued by former U.S. President Donald Trump, which sought to restrict DEI initiatives within government and federal agencies.