Are Star Trek Discovery and Star Trek Strange New Worlds Made for Women?

Fanboys have long complained that newer Star Trek series like Discovery and Strange New Worlds (SNW) are too “woke”.

However, the concept of “woke” is somewhat overused and often misunderstood. In the context of these series, “woke” refers to conscious efforts to promote social and political awareness, particularly addressing issues of gender and diversity. This isn't a buzzword meant to be dismissed but a significant part of modern entertainment.

The Evolution of Star Trek

Star Trek, from its inception, has always been about exploring the unknown and embracing diversity. Over the years, the series has consistently pushed boundaries and addressed societal issues. For five seasons, Star Trek: Discovery has been a continuous dialogue between those who consider themselves Trek purists and those who view it purely as fan engagement. This has even extended to Star Trek: Picard, which, despite its rich narrative, has faced similar scrutiny.

The shift to Strange New Worlds (SNW) has been met with a backlash from fans who believe they are finally getting a Trek without the same level of social commentary. However, critics often overlook the fundamental messages in the seriesparticularly in the third episode, which explicitly addresses transgender issues and acceptance.

A Series for Everyone

Despite the misguided backlash, it's important to note that all Star Trek series are made for everyone. They cater to women, men, teens, and children. Series like Lower Decks and Prodigy further this inclusivity, providing diverse audiences with relatable stories and characters.

Star Trek fundamentally explores what it means to be humanthe challenges, the triumphs, and the ever-evolving nature of humanity itself. It's about characters who, regardless of their gender, face complex situations that challenge their beliefs and push them to grow as individuals.

The Importance of Gender Diversity in Science Fiction

Societal representation has become a crucial aspect of modern media, especially in genres like science fiction. Star Trek has long been a pioneer in representing diverse characters, including women in positions of authority and leadership. This not only enriches the narrative but also reflects the changing demographics and societal values of our world.

With the new series, the focus on gender diversity is more explicit. Characters like Mi’r soak’ut Chavron in Colonial Nope and Adira in Lower Decks showcase the evolving role of women in the Starfleet and beyond. This representation is essential for why series like Stranger Things and The Expanse are populartheir narratives revolve around diverse, empowered characters who drive the story forward.

Why Star Trek is for Women

Women bring a unique perspective to storytelling, and this is abundantly clear in the new Star Trek series. Episodes like Sacrifice of Angels (Discovery) and the establishment of Adira as a character have not only provided strong, influential female characters but also showcased the journey of acceptance and empowerment. These stories not only entertain but also resonate with audiences, encouraging dialogue and reflection.

Moreover, the empowerment of women, both on-screen and behind the scenes, contributes to a culture of inclusivity and diversity. This is evident in the production teams and writers of the new series, who strive to create narratives that reflect a wide range of experiences and perspectives.

Conclusion: A Humanity-Focused Narrative

In the end, Star Trek is about humanity, its challenges, and its potential. Regardless of gender, every character in the series faces significant obstacles and personal growth. The new series, Discovery and Strange New Worlds, continue this tradition by reflecting on the complex issues of our world while providing compelling and relatable stories.

It’s not about making Trek too “woke”; it’s about embracing diversity and promoting acceptance. Star Trek is for everyone, including women, because it celebrates the richness of human experiencewhatever that may look like.