Star Trek and Equality
Star Trek and its fans is well known to have been among the most accepting of people of other races, genders, and sexualities. The plots and characters in the show often had social commentary hidden within the plot and dialogue. The show had diverse characters and actors and didn't discriminate. Many of the episodes had statements about discrimination against alien races within the show that were metaphors for discrimination in real life. Spock, a main character, is half-Vulcan and half-human and many of his struggles include not being accepted by either side. This is a metaphor for in real life how people who are mixed races struggle to fit in due to racism in society. Considering the original series aired during the Cold War, there was commentary on how damaging wars are in several episodes exhibiting the terrible aftermath of wars between alien races in space. Also, some episodes were showing the immigrants are helpful to society, and not detrimental, as many southern Americans believe today. One episode even had a pro-choice message hidden within its plot. Not only is there commentary on social issues, but also environmental ones such as the need to preserve "inferior" lifeforms to humans, such as whales. Another environmental issue they addressed is the issue of introducing non-native species, as exhibited in the famous episode featuring the Tribbles.
Besides the social commentary of the show itself, the actors hired to portray the characters themselves defied the norms of the time. For example, an African American woman was given a role portraying a strong, intelligent woman. The show depicted the first interracial kiss on television during a time when interracial relationships were controversial. They also hired George Takei, how is openly gay and today speaks out for gay rights.
Besides the social commentary of the show itself, the actors hired to portray the characters themselves defied the norms of the time. For example, an African American woman was given a role portraying a strong, intelligent woman. The show depicted the first interracial kiss on television during a time when interracial relationships were controversial. They also hired George Takei, how is openly gay and today speaks out for gay rights.