Google to pay $28m to settle claims it favoured white and Asian employees

Core Viewpoint - Google has agreed to a $28 million settlement in a class action lawsuit alleging discrimination in pay and career advancement based on race, specifically favoring white and Asian employees over others [1][2]. Group 1: Settlement Details - The settlement has received preliminary approval from Judge Charles Adams of the Santa Clara County Superior Court in California [1]. - The total net settlement proceeds amount to $20.4 million after deducting $7 million for legal fees and other associated costs [4]. - A hearing is scheduled for September to consider final approval of the settlement [4]. Group 2: Allegations and Claims - The lawsuit was initiated by Ana Cantu, representing employees from Hispanic, Latino, Indigenous, Native American, and other minority backgrounds, who claimed unequal treatment in pay and promotions [2][3]. - Cantu alleged that despite her exemplary performance over seven years, she remained at the same job level while her white and Asian peers received higher pay and promotions [3]. - The claims assert that Google's practices violated the California Equal Pay Act by placing white and Asian employees in higher job levels for the same work and withholding raises from those who complained [3]. Group 3: Company Response - A Google spokesperson confirmed the settlement but maintained that the company disagrees with the allegations and is committed to fair treatment of all employees [2].