Almost nine decades ago, a few years shy of a century, in fact, a Black girl was born in Robbins, Illinois. The year: 1932.

That girl was actor Nichelle Nichols, who blazed to television fame in the series, “Star Trek,” which debuted in 1966. She played the role of Lieutenant Nyota Uhura, the communications officer for the Starship Enterprise. An actor, singer and dancer, she was discovered by the legendary jazz and big-band composer Duke Ellington. Her stunning beauty and dancer’s carriage struck young boys and also inspired many young girls who aspired to a life on the stage. Although the original TV series only lasted until 1969, it sparked a franchise that continues to this day.

As July marked its last Saturday, Nichelle Nichols left this life. Her son, Kyle Johnson, wrote the following message on her Facebook page. He wrote, “Last night, my mother, Nichelle Nichols, succumbed to natural causes and passed away. Her light however, like the ancient galaxies now being seen for the first time, will remain for us and future generations to enjoy, learn from and draw inspiration.”

Nichelle Nichols played several other roles in her long career, one that played on her science fiction role in “Star Trek.” She called for applications from women and people of color to join NASA, and thousands of applications poured in. Because of reruns, new generations saw and enjoyed her “Star Trek” performances.

She lived to see 89 summers. As Lieutenant Uhura would’ve said, “hailing frequencies are now closed.”

For love, not fear, this is Mumia Abu-Jamal.

Mumia Abu-Jamal (guest author)

Share
Published by
Mumia Abu-Jamal (guest author)

Recent Posts

Pro-Palestine protest says ‘no’ to National Guard

New York City, March 27 Reflecting the widespread, popular rejection of National Guard troops in…

March 28, 2024

UAW organizing at VW moves forward

On Sept. 15 the United Auto Workers launched a historic “Stand Up Strike” against Ford,…

March 28, 2024

Ralph Poynter – A revolutionary life

By Mumia Abu-Jamal The English Poet William Wordsworth once said, “The child is the father…

March 28, 2024

Ralph Poynter: Una Vida Revolucionaria

  Por Mumia Abu-Jamal   El poeta inglés William Wordsworth dijo una vez, “El niño…

March 28, 2024

Reject Biden and build a better world

The following article first appeared in the Electronic Intifada, March 18, 2024.  A literal holocaust…

March 27, 2024

PDF of March 28 issue

Download the PDF. Palestinian resistance demands: End to genocide—Aid to Gaza now! WW Commentary: Rebuff…

March 27, 2024