Meet the Editors: Elianna Forde
October 21, 2026
Elianna Forde
SDG 10: Reducing Inequality
Equality is the cornerstone of any truly just society. It is the foundation upon which all human rights are built and the only path toward lasting peace and prosperity. As I’ve navigated through different stages of my life, I’ve learned that equality isn’t just a lofty ideal but it’s a necessity for healthy, vibrant communities and for ensuring that every person can thrive. This belief is what fuels my commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 10 (SDG 10): Reducing Inequality.
Growing up, I was always acutely aware of the disparities that existed around me. I observed the inequalities between different social classes, races, and communities, especially during my formative years in high school. It was difficult to ignore the glaring differences in access to resources and opportunities. Some students had everything they needed to succeed: technology, tutoring, extracurricular programs,etc, while others were left with minimal resources to work with. As I moved through high school, I began to feel deeply unsettled by this divide, knowing that it wasn’t right. However, I realized that discomfort could be harnessed as a driving force for change. The more I experienced and witnessed inequality, the more determined I became to act.
During my high school years, I accumulated over 400 hours of community service, each hour reflecting my commitment to this cause. I was manager of one of the sports teams as well as a helper in some middle school art classes. I learned that fostering inclusivity requires more than just good intentions—it requires action, consistent effort, and a willingness to engage in difficult conversation.
Another avenue through which I’ve committed to reducing inequality is through film. I’ve made 1-2 short films that explore the role of music in uniting diverse groups and building community. These films focused on how music can foster collaboration, healing, and understanding among people who might otherwise be divided by race, economic status, or cultural differences. Through my work, I aimed to show that when people come together through music, they are reminded of their shared humanity, and the divisions between them begin to fade. Music is more than just entertainment—it’s a tool for social change, and I am passionate about continuing to use it as a means of promoting equality and reducing inequality.
One of the most fulfilling experiences I’ve had in my journey toward promoting equality was my work as a kids camp counselor. In this role, I was responsible for guiding young people, helping them develop life skills, and creating an environment where they felt valued and included. At camp, I was always mindful of how easy it is for children—especially those who may come from different backgrounds or socioeconomic statuses—to feel left out or overlooked. To combat this, I made a concerted effort to ensure that every child felt heard, appreciated, and respected. I also took every opportunity to educate the children on the importance of inclusion and kindness. Whether through team-building exercises or group discussions, I reinforced the idea that diversity is something to be celebrated, not feared. By fostering an environment where every child felt like they had a place, I was able to contribute, in my own small way, to breaking down the barriers that often divide us.
As I move forward in my academic and professional career, I chose SUNY Purchase because of its strong commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and social change. I knew that this community would provide me with the opportunity to grow while aligning with my values. At SUNY Purchase, I found a community of like-minded individuals who shared my passion for reducing inequality, and I knew that being part of this environment would empower me to continue pursuing SDG 10 with even greater determination. The inclusive nature of this community allows me to feel comfortable and supported. In a world that often feels divided, it’s important to be in a space where I can actively work toward change and feel that my efforts are valued. SUNY Purchase has given me the resources and inspiration to pursue my future goals of advocating for equality on a larger scale, and I look forward to contributing to this environment in meaningful ways.
One of the driving forces behind my commitment to SDG 10 is my deep discomfort with injustice. When I see inequality—whether in my local community, on a national level, or globally—it creates a sense of unease in me that I cannot ignore. I’ve witnessed firsthand the damaging effects of discrimination and systemic injustice, and it deeply troubles me that so many people continue to face such struggles on a daily basis.
Looking ahead, one of the ways I plan to continue my work toward SDG 10 is through documentary filmmaking. Film has an unparalleled ability to expose social issues, evoke empathy, and inspire change. As I continue to develop my skills as a filmmaker, I envision creating documentaries that explore the impact of inequality on various communities—whether it’s racial inequality, economic disparity, or gender-based discrimination. My goal is to shed light on these issues and inspire viewers to take action in their own lives. I believe that by documenting the struggles and triumphs of those fighting for equality, I can contribute to the global movement toward a more just and inclusive world.
While my personal experiences with inequality have been deeply formative, I recognize that the fight for equality extends far beyond my own life. Across the world, inequality manifests in various forms, from the racial disparities seen in the United States to the economic inequality experienced by millions in developing countries. However, there have also been powerful movements and initiatives aimed at addressing these issues. From the fight for racial justice led by movements like Black Lives Matter to the global push for economic reforms that address poverty and inequality, there is hope on the horizon. As we move forward, I am optimistic that with continued advocacy and commitment, SDG 10 will become a reality.
2024 Cohort- Writing Committee ’24-’25, ’25-’26, Editorial Committee ’26-’27
