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 South Dakota, there are no specific state statutes that mandate private businesses to implement diversity and inclusion initiatives. However, businesses are subject to federal laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Additionally, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) provide protections against discrimination for individuals with disabilities and older workers, respectively. While South Dakota employers are encouraged to promote diversity and inclusion within their workplaces, the implementation of specific D&I policies, such as hiring a Director of Diversity & Inclusion or Chief Equality Officer, is generally at the discretion of the organization. Employers must ensure that any D&I initiatives they undertake comply with the applicable federal anti-discrimination laws.