Google Updates Responsible AI Team Page, Removing Diversity and Equity References

Google has updated the webpage for its Responsible AI and Human-Centered Technology (RAI-HCT) team, removing mentions of ‘diversity’ and ‘equity’ from its mission description. The previous version included terms like ‘marginalized communities,’ ‘underrepresented groups,’ and ‘equity,’ which have now been replaced with broader language such as ‘all’ and ‘varied.’ Watchdog group The Midas Project first noticed these changes and shared them on social media. This follows Google’s broader rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, including eliminating diversity hiring targets. Other tech giants, including Amazon, Meta, and OpenAI, have also scaled back DEI programs in recent months, aligning with increased scrutiny under the Trump administration, which has criticized such policies as ‘illegal.’ While Google has yet to comment on the webpage update, the move reflects a wider trend of large companies adjusting their diversity commitments, particularly those with government contracts. Meanwhile, Apple recently opposed a shareholder proposal to end its DEI programs, signaling a divergence in corporate approaches to diversity policies.