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 Pennsylvania, there are no specific state statutes that mandate private businesses to implement diversity and inclusion (D&I) initiatives. However, businesses are encouraged to adopt such practices to foster a more inclusive and diverse workplace. The state does have laws that prohibit discrimination in employment based on race, color, religion, ancestry, age, sex, national origin, disability, and other protected characteristics, as outlined in the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA). Additionally, federal laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) provide a legal framework that supports the principles of D&I by prohibiting employment discrimination. While D&I initiatives are largely voluntary for private employers, they can help organizations comply with these anti-discrimination laws and may also qualify businesses for certain state or federal incentives. Employers who choose to implement D&I initiatives often do so to improve their organizational culture, enhance their reputation, and potentially increase their competitive advantage in the marketplace.