Google Calendar has quietly removed the recognition of several important cultural events, including the first day of Black History Month and Women’s History Month.
What Changed?
Previously, Google Calendar would automatically highlight these dates. However, the company has now stopped this practice. They explained that manually adding hundreds of cultural events globally was becoming difficult to manage.
Instead, Google Calendar now relies on a third-party website, timeanddate.com, for a list of public holidays and national observances. This means that events like the start of Black History Month or Women’s History Month are no longer automatically displayed.
Why the Change?
This decision comes amidst a broader shift in Google’s policies, including changes to its diversity hiring goals and aligning with government-mandated name changes for geographical locations.
User Reactions:
Many users have expressed disappointment and concern over this change. They argue that recognizing important cultural events is crucial for raising awareness and promoting inclusivity.
The Bigger Picture:
This incident highlights the complex relationship between technology companies, cultural values, and political influences. It raises questions about the role of tech companies in shaping public discourse and promoting awareness of important social and historical events.
Key Takeaways:
- Google Calendar no longer automatically highlights the start of important cultural events like Black History Month and Women’s History Month.
- This decision has sparked criticism from users who believe it undermines efforts to promote diversity and inclusion.
- The change reflects a broader shift in Google’s policies, influenced by factors like government mandates and changing political landscapes.
This situation underscores the importance of open dialogue and transparency in how technology companies make decisions that impact public perception and cultural awareness.
