Sundar Pichai Pledges $12 Million To Fight Racism & Calls For A Moment Of Silence For George Floyd
What we have learned in recent weeks is that racism and police brutality doesn't take an off, even during a pandemic. The death of George Floyd at the hands of police officer Derek Chavin was just the breaking point that reignited the Black Lives Matter movement in full force with people coming out to protest against racial injustices and police brutality.
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The movement is so significant that people all over the world are fighting for justice and equality, not just the US. So many companies have joined the movement and showed solidarity towards the protestors during such an important time.
This also includes Google and Sundar Pichai is taking the correct first step by donating and showing support. In a company-wide email, he detailed Google's plans to support the Black Lives Matter movement.
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First of all, he wanted the employees to stand together for a moment of silence for George Floyd and every black person who lost their lives due to senseless violence. The moment of silence was supposed to be held for 8 minutes and 46 seconds and the significance of that time is very crucial.
Cops had held down George Floyd for 8 minutes and 46 seconds and in that time, he was mercilessly choked to death. He said, "It's meant to serve as a visceral reminder of the injustice inflicted on Mr. Floyd and so many others. We acknowledge that racism and violence may look different in different parts of the world, so please use this as a moment to reflect on those who have been lost in your own country or community at a time that works for you."
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While this is important, but just stopping at a moment of silence would be just an empty gesture. He acknowledges that and further details the company's plans to actively fight racial inequality.
He said, "Weâll be giving $12 million in funding to organizations working to address racial inequities. Our first grants of $1 million each will go to our long-term partners at the Center for Policing Equity and the Equal Justice Initiative. And weâll be providing technical support through our Google.org Fellows program. This builds on the $32 million we have donated to racial justice over the past five years. Weâll also offer $25 million in Ad Grants to help organizations fighting racial injustice provide critical information."
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In the end, he talked about how it's important to work on coming up with long-term solutions and is already working on that and has even asked for suggestions for the same.
He said, "The events of the past few weeks reflect deep structural challenges. Weâll work closely with our Black community to develop initiatives and product ideas that support long-term solutionsâand weâll keep you updated. As part of this effort, we welcome your ideas on how to use our products and technology to improve access and opportunity."
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