How does Vonnegut establish the theme of equality in the story? What are some telling moments that build this theme?

In the
opening paragraph of the story, Vonnegut boldly establishes the theme of equality by declaring
that "everybody was finally equal" in the year 2081 and people were completely equal
in all facets of life. Vonnegut then writes,

Nobody was
smarter than anybody else. Nobody was better looking than anybody else. Nobody was stronger or
quicker than anybody else.

Vonnegut proceeds to comment
on the seminal amendments that created complete uniformity in America and mentions the United
States Handicapper General, which is the government agency in charge of establishing
equality.

Vonnegut continues to establish the theme of equality by describing
George Bergeron's handicaps to inform the audience of the oppressive methods the government
employs to ensure complete equality. The cumbersome, uncomfortable handicaps are a jarring
feature that contributes to the theme, which is underscored by Harrison's appearance. Harrison
is depicted as an athletic genius, whose handicaps make him look like a "walking
junkyard."

The masked, weighted ballerinas on the TV also contribute to
the theme of equality and the audience is able to grasp the oppressive, depressing environment
of a completely uniform dystopian America.