Google has quietly updated the web pages for its Responsible AI and Human Centered Technology (RAI-HCT) team. The team will research AI safety, equity, and explainability and rub the mentions of “diversity” and “equity.”
We described the work of the RAI-HCT team in previous versions using languages such as “allied communities,” “diverse,” “underrepresented groups,” and “equity.” The language was removed or, in some cases, replaced with less specific language (e.g. “all,” “diverse,” “many” rather than “diverse.”)
Google did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Date: February 26th – March 6th, 2025
Company: @google
Change: rubbing references to diversity and equity from mission statements for responsible AI teams. pic.twitter.com/i9vvbchmq6– March 8, 2025, Midas Project Watchtower (@SafetyChanges)
Changes discovered by the WatchDog Group The Midas project come after Google removes similar languages from the Startups Founders Fund Grant website. The company said in early February it would eliminate diversity employment targets and review its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) program.
Google is one of many big tech companies that have rolled back the DEI initiative as it targets what the Trump administration characterizes as “illegal” practices. Amazon and Meta have revived Dei’s actions over the past few months, and Openai recently removed diversity and inclusion mentions from its web pages regarding employment practices. However, Apple recently opposed a shareholder proposal to end the DEI program.
Many of these companies, including Google, have contracts with federal agencies.