EPCOT is my favorite of the four Walt Disney World theme parks. The Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow celebrates humanity through culture and really good food. The park is based on Walt Disney’s vision for an actual futuristic city where all needs were met and cultures were respected.
The centerpiece attraction of EPCOT is Spaceship Earth, the dazzling geodesic sphere that symbolizes the park. Inside the sphere is a ride through the history of communication. Narrated by Dame Judy Dench, Spaceship Earth describes how humanity grew and flourished as it connected with each other through communication and cultural interactions.
The culmination of Spaceship Earth ushers us into the digital age where communication travels faster than the speed of light. Where people on opposite sides of the globe can communicate in real time. This is the dream of EPCOT realized.
The evening fireworks show is called the Luminous The Symphony of Us and is “designed to bring us all together.” In true EPCOT fashion, it highlights that we are all more alike than we are different.
We’re at a unique point in history where we could see unprecedented intellectual growth and humanitarian advancement. Our leaders could encourage and support this path to lead us into the embodiment of Disney’s vision. Instead, too many exploit the few differences we have to stoke division and incite fear of each other — all to stay in power and maintain control.
I believe in Disney’s vision of a cultural celebration. I believe we grow when we experience unique views, foods, and focus on the greater good. I believe that if we focus on our shared humanity, untold advancements are possible. We need leaders who also believe this vision of our future.
Our leaders count on our complacency and addiction to never-ending social feeds filled with slop. But, we can break the cycle and demand something better, something focused on our greater humanity. If EPCOT has taught me anything, it’s that the future is in our hands. We can create the world we want. We just have to act. Let’s focus on our shared humanity and not fear or division.