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| Image Source: Memory Alpha Wiki |
Topics: Boldly Go, Civil Rights, Leonard Nimoy, Science Fiction, Space Travel, Star Trek
In memory of Leonard Nimoy: March 26, 1931 - February 27, 2015.
"Memory Alpha": When you lived in the designated reservation also known as a ghetto, there are "norms" that your very existence defied: it's not "normal" to have an interest in science and math; to watch documentaries, Mr. Wizard; Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom; The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau. And, by gosh, you didn't watch Star Trek nor the moon landing.
Now, we have web sites that celebrate black nerds. There's even a word for it now: blerds. Not so in the 60's. You were then just weird, oddball, outcast, different: the "other."
Despite the demonstrably miraculous technologies your fictional century had mastered, there was still an obvious prejudice even between space faring species Gene Roddenberry and the scriptwriters couldn't ignore. Part of the attraction and charm of Star Trek (especially for Dr. King) is we might just learn to get along with one another and survive as a species; that we might tolerate differences especially when it is solidly in our faces with bowled haircut; arched eyebrows; pointed ears and green-tinged skin. You played a half-human: Vulcan and Earth coursed in your copper veins; your character balanced and respected two cultures because of the parents Spock loved (though logic wouldn't let him admit it). You were "diversity" before the word was re-purposed in the lexicon.
You will be lauded, celebrated and missed by Star Trek fans worldwide. I know the totality of your body of work is far beyond the franchise as poet, director; writer, song writer and more. It's not uncommon nor unfair for actors to not wish to be typecast, i.e. known for only one role. However sir, this role was significant to straightening the backs of many: you were the "other," a man artistically crafted between two worlds to struggle with what than meant, and we struggled with you. You allowed those of us that felt "different" to feel that it's OK to be that way. That our nerd culture was beyond Melanin or for many, sexual orientation: all our values, our histories, ourselves have purpose and meaning for our brief time as blades of grass in the light. We thoroughly enjoyed your time and your talents in it with all of us.
As you attain escape velocity, and warp to meet Gene, Majel Barrett and James Doohan, know that "I have been, and will always be"...your fan.
For your Katra, peace, and long life...live long and prosper, Leonard Nimoy.
\\//_
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