I think you are seeing this in the wrong light. It will not change issues that are part of its immediate business. Instead google will be seen by others as a

I think you are seeing this in the wrong light. It will not change issues that are part of its immediate business. Instead google will be seen by others as a champion of freedom. A good force. Something that isn't "evil". Therefore, the purpose of this strategy is twofold One, is that you get something that helps out your employees. Two, you get to be seen in the world as a progressive force of change. By changing the public perception can do no wrong or that google is a champion of good is worth more. This is a marketing program that you do if you have billions to use. So, you are right. There is no reason that this is relevant to its immediate business. It's a marketing ploy that has the side effect of championing civil rights. I'm not complaining I think its great!