ARE WE ALL EQUAL??

Interestingly,i raised the subject with a few learned colleagues over a social drink and triggered a train of thought. some argue that we are equal in general,i.e. status in society,community or in a given environment,while some beg to differ,stating that we are never equal. What about rights,stature,power enjoyed by a few and denied to the majority?
WHAT DO YOU THINK? feel free to make comments...