As a lifelong Star Trek enthusiast who grew up watching the original series and embracing its ideals of diversity, inclusion, and ethical behavior, I find myself aligning with Robert Picardo’s stance on Elon Musk’s proposal for a real-life Starfleet Academy.
Star Trek: Voyager actor Robert Picardo expresses criticism towards Elon Musk following his social media post about making Starfleet Academy a reality. While Musk appears eager to bring the Star Trek universe closer to our world, Picardo, who played The Doctor on Voyager, raises concerns about Musk leading such an endeavor due to his controversial public image.
“Initial Action: Back a figurehead who upholds the principles of Starfleet, such as diversity, inclusivity, and moral integrity.”
It’s apparent that Picardo doubts Musk can embody the spirit and principles of ‘Star Trek’, as Musk’s views, values, and political leanings significantly deviate from those envisioned by Gene Roddenberry.
Since its inception, the Star Trek series has consistently emphasized diversity and inclusion. For instance, the original show presented one of the earliest representations of a significant Black female character in Nichelle Nichols’ portrayal of Uhura. Moreover, it challenged societal norms by depicting a kiss between Uhura and Captain Kirk, played by William Shatner, in the episode “Plato’s Stepchildren.” This moment is now recognized as the first instance of an interracial kiss on network television.
Picardo’s opinion of Musk and his desire to make Starfleet Academy a reality is backed up by Gene Roddenberry himself. While Musk has spent his time recently pushing conspiracy theories, sharing far-right accounts on X, and attacking the LGBTQ+ community (to the extent that his own daughter has disowned him), the Star Trek creator envisioned a world where humanity does not just tolerate, but celebrates differences. Roddenberry said of the series back in 1976…
“Star Trek aimed at expressing that humanity would truly grow up and become wise when it learns not only to endure, but genuinely enjoy diversity of thoughts and various forms of life.”
If we can’t find pleasure in appreciating the unique qualities among ourselves, the various aspects that make each of us distinct, right here on Earth, then we may not be ready for the rich tapestry of diversity that likely awaits us in outer space.
The Exchange Has Sparked Debate Among Star Trek Fans
The interaction between Elon Musk and Robert Picardo, who played The Doctor on Star Trek: Voyager from 1995 to 2001 and has continued his Star Trek journey in shows like Deep Space Nine and Prodigy, has ignited discussions online. Some Star Trek fans agreed with the actor’s view…while others didn’t. One fan suggested using the dermal regenerator for a burn, while another commented that Voyager’s dermal regenerator wasn’t powerful enough to heal such a burn.
Individuals who hold differing views argue that Picardo, not Musk, is the one who may have misconstrued the Star Trek universe. A user on X stated, “Starfleet didn’t promote officers based on race, gender, or sexuality. It valued ability and character over all else. Perhaps you should rewatch the series.” Other users have countered these arguments, with one responding, “Not only did they ensure that no one was disadvantaged by those factors you mentioned, but they also made sure of it consistently! Maybe you need to revisit the shows again.”
You can check out more fan reactions below.
Read More
Sorry. No data so far.
2024-08-28 18:31