Affirmative Action Programs and Diversity Initiatives: Key Considerations

This practice note addresses requirements and practical considerations for workplace voluntary affirmative action programs and voluntary diversity initiatives. It discusses private and public employers. It explains the pitfalls that may exist in implementing certain diversity efforts and provides guidelines on creating a more diverse and inclusive work environment. The practice note further explores how to implement strategies to increase diversity at law firms and corporate legal departments. This practice note utilizes the American Bar Association's definition of diversity which includes racial minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and persons of differing sexual orientations and gender identities. See Model Diversity Survey at 1.