In a recent update, Google has drawn significant attention by removing references to important cultural observances from its online calendars. Historically, Google’s calendars included markers for events such as the commencement of Black History Month and Women’s History Month. However, users noticed that these notable days were omitted from the 2025 calendar, sparking considerable discussion and criticism.
This alteration was first reported by The Verge and has raised questions about the company’s commitment to cultural awareness and representation. In an email response, a Google spokesperson acknowledged that these changes began around mid-2024, revealing a complex reasoning behind the decision. Initially, the Calendar team made an effort to include a wider variety of cultural moments globally, but feedback indicated gaps in representation. The spokesperson expressed that the undertaking of manually maintaining numerous events had proven to be unsustainable.
These changes occur in a wider context of shifting political climates, especially within the United States. Google recently followed suit with other tech giants by dismantling its diversity hiring goals—an indication of how external socio-political factors can influence corporate policies. This shift is emblematic of a larger trend in which businesses reassess their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in response to changes in leadership and governmental policy.
For instance, shortly after President Donald Trump took office, an executive order effectively terminated many of the federal DEI programs and prompted a reevaluation of such models in the private sector. Google, in a similar vein, has shown alignment with these changes regarding its internal and external policies, which raises questions about the society’s role in informing corporate agendas.
The removal of these observances from Google Calendar is likely to have a tangible impact on how users engage with these cultural moments. Calendars serve not only as scheduling tools but also as platforms for recognizing and celebrating significant historical events and identities. By eliminating visibility for occasions like Indigenous Peoples Month or the start of LGBTQ+ Pride Month, Google is potentially downplaying the importance of these observances and their role in societal education.
The ability to manually add events is a welcomed feature; however, this functionality relies heavily on user initiative and may not raise awareness to the same standard as official representations. As a result, the changes may lead to a diminished awareness surrounding these significant cultural observances, which numerous groups worked hard to establish in public consciousness.
The recent decision by Google to remove important cultural events from its calendar is a reminder of the responsibility tech companies hold in shaping societal discourse. As technology continues to entwine with daily life, it becomes increasingly important for companies to promote inclusivity and awareness.
In light of these changes, it is crucial for both users and advocates for diversity to demand better representation in digital platforms that are integral to culture and community engagement. By reinstating these important dates, Google can affirm its commitment to cultural recognition and inclusivity in a world that increasingly requires these values to be front and center in all spheres, particularly in technology.