Google’s recent decision to remove Pride Month, Black History Month, and Women’s History Month from its calendar might seem like a minor update, but it signals a much larger shift in corporate attitudes toward diversity. The move comes amid growing hostility towards diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, with major corporations such as Amazon, Meta, and McDonald’s scaling back their commitments.
While Google insists that maintaining a global calendar with hundreds of cultural moments was unsustainable, the removal of these key observances sends a chilling message. LGBTQ+ activists argue that erasing Pride Month from such a visible platform could contribute to a broader erasure of queer identity in public discourse. “Tech companies wield immense influence, and these seemingly small changes impact how marginalized groups feel seen and recognized,” said an LGBTQ+ rights advocate.
The decision aligns with a broader rollback of DEI initiatives, driven by conservative political forces. Former president Donald Trump and right-wing commentators have framed diversity efforts as unnecessary and even harmful, pressuring corporations to abandon them. The erasure of Pride Month from Google Calendar may be a reflection of this trend—whether intentional or not.
Yet, some companies are resisting. Apple, for instance, has actively encouraged shareholders to vote against dismantling DEI policies. However, Google’s decision may encourage others to follow suit, further undermining the hard-fought visibility of minority communities. For LGBTQ+ individuals, this silent deletion underscores the ongoing battle for recognition in an era where corporate support can be as fleeting as a calendar update.