Google quietly removes diversity and inclusion statements from AI team webpage

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Published inAI News · 3 min read · Mar 9, 2025

Google recently updated its official website for its "Responsible AI and Human-Centered Technology (RAI-HCT)" team, raising eyebrows after quietly removing references to "diversity" and "equity." Previously, the webpage used terms like "marginalized communities," "diverse," "underrepresented groups," and "equity" to describe the team's work on AI safety, fairness, and explainability.

Following the update, these descriptive terms have been replaced with vaguer language. For example, phrases like "all," "varied," and "numerous" now substitute for "diverse." Google has yet to comment on this change, leaving the reasons behind it open to speculation.

This alteration was first noticed by the oversight organization, the Midas Project. This follows Google's earlier removal of similar language from its startup founder fund webpage. Notably, Google announced in February that it would be abandoning its diversity hiring goals and reviewing its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.

This isn't unique to Google. In recent years, several large tech companies have rolled back DEI initiatives, particularly after the Trump administration labeled such measures as "illegal," bringing increased scrutiny to these programs. Besides Google, Amazon and Meta have also withdrawn diversity and equity-related policies, while OpenAI recently removed references to diversity and inclusion from its recruiting practices webpage. However, Apple took a contrasting stance, rejecting a shareholder proposal to end its DEI programs.

Many large tech companies, including Google, hold contracts with federal agencies, making their adjustments to diversity and equity strategies a subject of significant discussion. Google's webpage change reflects the complex and evolving attitudes towards diversity and equity within the tech industry.

Key Points:
🌐 Google updated its AI team's webpage, removing references to "diversity" and "equity."
🔍 This change has sparked concern and awaits an official response from Google.
📉 Several tech companies, such as Amazon and Meta, have also withdrawn related DEI policies, reflecting a shifting industry trend.

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