The multi-trillion-dollar company Google, founded in 1998 by Larry Page and Sergey Brin removed its DEI holidays from online and mobile calendars. Those holidays include Black History Month, Women’s History Month, LBTQAI+ holidays, Indigenous Peoples’ Month and many more. Google previously supported DEI efforts, they were in partnership with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), the Grow with Google Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Career Readiness Program, was a way for Google to support Black students interested in entering the job market post grad. Google partnered with many HBCUs across the country ensuring that Black students developed important digital skills to secure internships and jobs that would aid them in being successful. At the time, Google committed $1 million to HBCU career service centers across the country to be distributed by TMCF. Now, as they have decided to roll back DEI efforts their commitment is unknown.
Google is the largest search engine in the world. Google spokesperson Madison Cushman Veld told the Guardian that the listed holidays that were removed were no longer “sustainable” for their models. The statement also said, “Some years ago, the Calendar team started manually adding a broader set of cultural moments in a wide number of countries around the world. We got feedback that some other events and countries were missing – and maintaining hundreds of moments manually and consistently globally wasn’t scalable or sustainable.” Veld stated that in 2024, the company went back to only showing public holidays and national observances. The start of President Trumps second term heavily influenced Googles decision to roll back its DEI efforts, including Google’s commitment to support DEI in their workplace.
President Trump signed an executive order to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, and changing the mountain in Alaska from Denali to Mount McKinley. Google followed these orders and users have seen the name changes on their digital devices. In an email to the Guardian, Google reassured that although changes on the calendar no longer reflect DEI efforts, it will not affect Google Doodles, which are unique, temporary changes to the Google homepage logo. The changes are created to reflect holidays, anniversaries of significant events, important dates, and to celebrate the birthdays of notable people. The doodles are artistic and interactive allowing users to see a playful twist on the usual Google logo. In a statement, Google said “Google continues to actively celebrate and promote cultural moments as a company in our products.”
Many are upset as Google has rolled back its DEI efforts on their calendar, it is hurting Black people and the Black community as a whole, and others who take pride in being recognized when the company celebrates important events for the culture. Google has made promises in the past to support diversity and inclusion (DEI), so removing these holidays, celebrations might make people feel like they are no longer valued. For Black communities, and others it can feel like a step backward, as these moments helped honor their history and achievements.
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
