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 New Jersey, diversity initiatives, including diversity and inclusion (D&I) policies, are encouraged but not specifically mandated by state law for private employers. However, New Jersey's Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, familial status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, and other protected characteristics. This law creates a legal framework that supports the goals of D&I initiatives by requiring equal treatment and non-discrimination in the workplace. Additionally, New Jersey supports the use of affirmative action plans, which can be a component of D&I initiatives, to remedy past discrimination. Public employers in New Jersey are also subject to federal laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination. While there is no specific legal requirement for private businesses to implement D&I initiatives, doing so can help organizations comply with anti-discrimination laws and foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment.