Diversity initiatives—also known as diversity and inclusion initiatives or D&I—are policies and procedures implemented by a business or other organization that are designed to improve workplace and career experiences and outcomes for women and racial and ethnic minorities. Organizations usually begin a diversity initiative with a statement by top management that the initiative is a priority for the organization, and sometimes hire a Director of Diversity & Inclusion or Chief Equality Officer to implement the organization’s goals related to hiring and retention of diverse employees.

In Massachusetts, diversity initiatives are encouraged and supported by various state laws and regulations that promote equal opportunity and prohibit discrimination in the workplace. The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) enforces the state's anti-discrimination laws, which cover employment, housing, credit, and access to public accommodations. Employers are prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, genetic information, military service, or disability. The state also has affirmative action laws that require state contractors and subcontractors to engage in practices that ensure equal opportunity for all individuals. While there is no specific legal requirement for private employers to implement diversity and inclusion initiatives, such programs are generally viewed as best practices to create a more equitable and inclusive work environment and can help employers comply with anti-discrimination laws and improve employee recruitment and retention.