As employers formulate answers to the nationwide call for racial equality, many have boosted their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

For some, this has included a decision to tie executive compensation to progress on DEI goals. Others have been doing this for some time, but newcomers include Wells Fargo and Starbucks.

Mercer earlier this month estimated that 15%-20% of S&P 500 companies include DEI metrics in executive incentive plans; for those that don't, it's a missed opportunity, the firm said.

Accountability for long-term change in DEI can help employers reach related goals at a time when employees and customers are calling for tangible plans for racial equality, Mercer continued, detailing first steps for employers considering such a move.

Below are a sampling of employers that have linked DEI progress to executive compensation.