Google Removes DEI Groups from Funding List - What Happened?

Google Adjusts Funding for DEI Organizations

A recent report, corroborated by CNBC, indicates that Google has removed the designations of over 50 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) groups from a publicly available list of organizations it supports financially.

The list in question, representing Google’s 2024 selections for organizations supported by its U.S. Government Affairs and Public Policy division, no longer includes 58 DEI-focused entities.

Details of the Funding Changes

Among the groups no longer publicly identified as recipients of Google’s support are the Latino Leadership Alliance and the ACLU of Illinois.

In response to inquiries, a Google spokesperson stated: “The characterization presented in this report is inaccurate regarding our public policy contributions.”

The spokesperson further explained that Google provides funding to numerous organizations representing a wide range of political viewpoints, and these affiliations are subject to annual review based on potential impact.

Context of the Changes

This adjustment in funding transparency occurs following statements from the previous administration indicating an intent to scrutinize companies demonstrating overt support for DEI initiatives.

It remains uncertain whether Google continues to provide financial assistance to these organizations through undisclosed channels, as noted by CNBC.

Broader Shifts in Google’s DEI Approach

Over the past year, Google has revised its approach to diversity initiatives.

Specifically, the company discontinued the practice of establishing explicit diversity targets for its hiring processes.

Furthermore, references to “underrepresented” groups were removed from the company’s grant application website.

Mentions of “diversity” and “equity” were also eliminated from Google’s responsible AI webpage.

This year’s 10-K filings from Google similarly omitted any discussion of DEI programs.

Language and Policy Considerations

The organizations removed from Google’s funding list frequently incorporated terms such as “race” and “women” in their mission statements.

These terms align with those the previous administration advised federal agencies to minimize in their communications.

This article has been updated to include a statement from a Google representative.