You could say slowly but surely, the world is changing in a good

"You could say slowly but surely, the world is changing in a good way - equality in all forms is more and more part of the global conversation, and people are celebrating diversity and individuality." These words from Edward Enninful carry a message of hope and gradual transformation. The idea that equality is becoming a central part of the global conversation speaks to the collective movement of humanity toward justice, understanding, and celebration of the individual. Enninful suggests that we are not yet at the destination, but the journey is well underway—our world is slowly evolving, and this evolution is one that honors the rich tapestry of diversity that defines us all.

In the ancient world, the struggle for equality was often seen through the lens of justice and order. Consider the Greek philosopher Socrates, who, despite living in a society deeply entrenched in inequality, argued that justice was the highest virtue. He believed that justice meant not only fair treatment but a recognition of the inherent worth of every individual, regardless of their station in life. This ancient quest for fairness and equality laid the foundation for modern thought on human rights and justice. Enninful’s words echo this ancient ideal—that equality is the very bedrock of a society that can progress and thrive, and that the celebration of diversity and individuality is integral to achieving that vision.

Throughout history, there have been numerous moments that marked the celebration of diversity and the advancement of equality. In 1863, the Emancipation Proclamation in the United States signaled a monumental shift, one that set in motion the eventual recognition of Black Americans’ rights as equal to those of their white counterparts. Yet, the battle for equality was far from over. The struggle continued through the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, where leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. called for not just legal equality, but a recognition of the dignity and value of every human life. King’s vision was one in which people would "not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character." In much the same way, Enninful calls for the celebration of diversity—for the recognition that true equality must go beyond legal rights to encompass the full spectrum of humanity in all its forms.

The 20th century saw further advances toward equality, particularly with the global movements for women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial equality. The women’s suffrage movement, for example, achieved a monumental victory when women were granted the right to vote in many countries across the world. This was not just a legal victory, but a recognition of the equality of women, who had long been marginalized in both public and private spheres. Enninful’s observation that the world is slowly changing for the better reflects this legacy of progress—the advocacy for equality has become an interwoven part of global discourse. We are now living in an age where individuality is valued more than ever before, and where the uniqueness of each person is celebrated rather than hidden or suppressed.

Consider the global phenomenon of the LGBTQ+ pride movement, which celebrates individuality in its most personal and profound form. The Stonewall Riots of 1969 marked a turning point in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, with activists standing up against discrimination and demanding recognition of their rights. The rainbow flag, symbolizing the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community, became a powerful emblem of individual expression and freedom. Today, LGBTQ+ pride parades around the world are a celebration of diversity, where people from all walks of life come together to honor their identities. Enninful’s words capture the spirit of this movement—where equality and individuality are not only pursued but celebrated as integral parts of the human experience.

The lesson of Enninful’s statement is one of patience, hope, and determination. While the road to equality and celebration of diversity may be long and difficult, it is clear that society is moving in the right direction. As we advance toward a world where individuality is not just accepted, but cherished, we are building a future where every person can thrive without fear of discrimination. Enninful invites us to look at the progress we’ve made—while also recognizing the work still to be done. The path to true equality is a collective effort, where every voice, no matter how small, contributes to the larger narrative.

In practical terms, the message here is clear: it is not enough to merely advocate for equality—we must also celebrate the diverse identities that make us who we are. Each of us has a responsibility to not only advocate for equal rights, but also to ensure that the differences that make us unique are honored and embraced. Whether in our workplaces, communities, or personal lives, we must strive to build environments where diversity is actively sought out, respected, and celebrated. We must challenge the forces of division and exclusion, and instead, create spaces where people can be their true selves without fear of judgment or prejudice.

So, future generations, let Enninful’s vision inspire you to continue the work of building a world where equality and diversity are not just abstract ideals, but lived realities. Strive to create spaces where every individual is valued, respected, and celebrated for who they are. Let us honor the progress that has been made, but let it also fuel the fight for a more inclusive, more just world for all.