Google has decided to abandon some of its diversity hiring targets, aligning with a trend among U.S. companies scaling back diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. This move follows an executive order by President Donald Trump aimed at pressuring government contractors to scrap DEI initiatives. As a federal contractor, Google sells technology to the government, leading to this strategic shift. In its annual report, Google’s parent company, Alphabet, removed language emphasizing commitment to diversity and inclusion. The tech giant clarified that it is reviewing programs to create equal opportunities for all employees. Notably, this change coincides with prominent tech CEOs, including Sundar Pichai, standing behind Trump during his inauguration.

The recent executive order threatens financial sanctions on federal contractors with deemed “illegal” DEI programs, underlining the uncertainty companies face in defining lawful diversity policies. Google has been striving to increase representation of underrepresented groups in leadership roles, but progress has been modest. The company’s annual diversity report shows incremental gains in Black, Hispanic, and female representation in leadership positions, although the overall workforce remains predominantly male.

This development reflects a broader trend in the corporate world, with companies like Meta and Amazon also retracting DEI initiatives in response to political pressures. The challenge for companies lies in navigating evolving DEI regulations under the Trump administration and ensuring compliance with legal standards. Despite the setbacks, Google’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace remains a focal point amid changing regulatory landscapes.