Commentary & Response
From Members & Visitors

Subject: This Could Be the Start of A Good Thing
Date: November 101997
From: Scott Carpenter (scarpntr@worldnet.att.net)

I just found your site after seeing this week's episode of Voyager. I'd heard vague rumors about 7 of 9 being a lesbian, and have been watching the show to see if they'll actually do it.

This week's episode had something that might be the start of the setup? It was while the ship was being attacked and 7 of 9 was leading a newly-blind Tuvok through the ship. It's revealed that 7 of 9 has a new female roommate. While it's made clear she doesn't approve of her roomie (she's disorderly and leaves her clothes laying around), it at least puts her into intimate, daily contact with another woman. The kind of contact that could make a previously non-sexual being begin to question all these new hormone surges.

Maybe they've (Paramount) finally gotten a clue? Maybe they'll stop being so damned timid and trying to pass off piles of crap like "The Outcast" as their statement on gays and lesbians? Keeping my fingers crossed...

Subject: 17-year-old Asks Why
Date: Nov 13 1997
From: David

Dear Outspeaker and fellow readers;

I am a 17 year old gay male from a small town in eastern Canada. I cannot even begin to express the peace and acceptance I feel when I read all the encouraging posts on this comment board. It is YOU who really makes the difference. It's not the government, it's not the television stars and it's not even the protesters! Its kind and enlightened people like Gene Roddenberry who truly send a beam of light into the darkness.

It is a sad thing indeed when 30% of all teen suicides are acted upon by gay and lesbian teenagers. It in fact horrifies me... I personally have gone through many deeply depressing times. And, I might add that it was/is not caused by the fact that I am a homosexual but rather brought on by extensive worrying and paranoia. It is unfathomable to many people what a gay/lesbian teenager goes through emotionally. Forever worried that your parents/friends will find out and when the day comes will they still love me for who I am? I have sadly drawn the conclusion that yes, my life will in fact change dramatically when and if the day comes when those close to me find out who I really am. I know living in a small predominantly christian town does not help. I find it extremely saddening that for living in such a free democratic society, the youth of our so called "free" society have to carry around the pain and suffering that realizing your gay in a homophobic world is almost to much. In fact, it has proven to be "too much" for many teens who end their lives needlessly!!!

So now, I ask... no I plead with you, the people of the world to stand up for your friends and your family. Yes, there are gay people in your family and you know them well. Don't be afraid of what someone will think of you for being "gay friendly". For only you can make the difference. It starts with each of us.

Now I ask you the creators of Star Trek DS9 and Voyager... we may haunt you all of our lives asking for a gay or lesbian character but will it really matter? There has been an outstanding cry from the people asking you, suggesting that you and even telling you how to go about ushering in a homosexual character with as much ease as possible. So now I would like to know.... WHAT EXACTLY IS THE HOLD UP?

Obviously you are holding back something? And please don't mistake me as a angry homosexual out to cause a stir; I am simply a HUMAN BEING... something we all have in common no matter what we believe or feel. I deeply enjoy Star Trek. I very much anticipate the newest voyager and DS9. I think most of us would agree that Star Trek is more than warp cores and photon torpedo's... it has a deeply humanistic feel. An unshakable foundation built upon our hopes for peace and optimism in the not so distant future. I commend you on a job well done... and I can forgive your slowness since you too are Human as well.

On a final note, it is my belief that this entire "movement" was brought upon by us, the people of the world ourselves. It is nothing more than an evolutionary step... the human race is ready now to make another step towards progression and it just happens to be this generation that usher's in this particular "shift" in human history... it is my prayer and hope that someday soon, perhaps the youth of the 21st century will be free to be in their schools and in their homes.

Peace and light to all you who share Roddenberry's vision of maybe not a perfect utopia..... but a "working utopia".

Subject: Questions for TrekkersBR> Date: November 14, 1997
From: "Ken Unger"

Treading cautiously here; I find ST rather facile, but do understand the fanatic perspective; the show has occasionally shown inspiration in both premise and execution. As a pop-cult phenomenon it's influence should be directed in enlightened ways, and thus I applaud you. Regarding this site's immanent debate, consider if you will the following semi-related questions:

Why don't Starfleet males ever wear skirts? It is a practical garment to wear in the comfortable ship-board climate, and many Starfleet females have worn them. The closest I've seen was in ST:The Motion Picture, Earth-side, where people were wearing togas and such.

Why do Starfleet females typically have longer hair than males?

Why do Starfleet females typically wear make-up, while males are never depicted with such?

Wouldn't 24th Century medical technology allow for facile sex-changes? (Read the book `Steel Beach' by John Varley for a colourful future of technologically warped ease.)

Can you imagine the levels of tattooing, body piercing, mutilation, and techno-holo-sex-fetish practises possible with the Medical, Holographic, Replication, and Transport technology available? My absent God, it's staggering. Did strawberry gay people survive but not Wicked Wanda?

Have polygamy, polyandry, and communal sexual arrangements disappeared?

Where did monotheism go? Shouldn't the Jehovah's Witnesses be e-mailing people?

Where did religion, period, go?

Why did they have to ruin the Borg character so quickly? High-heeled boots, silver skin-suit, Tasha Yar haircut, & decorative borg-ware jewellery in 3 fashion colours my ass! Wouldn't it have been a tad more interesting if...oh never mind.

Reading your Voyager script involving Chakotay brought to eyes descriptions of his Aboriginal American paraphernalia. Does he use peyote or some other psychedelic? Where are the psychedic drugs in the 24th Century, anyway? Do they play any role in people's personal development, or has the sterility of Western thought continued to tyrannize? I find it difficult to comprehend how this absence of psychedelics, whether substances or performance art, was accomplished outside of unmentioned fascism or genetic control.

Whatever happened to virtual reality, manifested purely sensorily, outside of a Holodeck?

Do people have intimate relations with Holodeck characters?

How can people run in the Holodeck? Won't they hit a wall? Or does the floor move? Wouldn't people be limited in how far they could be from one another while on-deck?

I have other criticism which is more ascerbic, but I will withhold it. I loathe seeing cool premises wasted, you see. In regards to your site, bravo! The vision behind ST is worthy, and you are certainly propelling it's elaboration.

Thanks for the space,

G.N.Unger
Canada

P.S. I just have to say that your web-site has given me a lot of laughs--some of your comments and letters in particular, like the article busting Scotty. Leave the man alone; he's fat and he kills too many lobsters. Let him die in peace. Your page is overcolourful for my tastes, but brilliant nonetheless.

Subject: Be Careful, Paramount!
Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997
From: "Kim Brotherton"

Be very careful, Paramount. You're losing touch with your audience.

I'm a secondary school teacher. Because of my job, I obviously have a very good idea on what teenage trends are. Homosexuality is becoming acceptable. When asked questions about homosexuality, most kids will reply "What does it matter?" Many teenage girls are sexually experimenting with their girlfriends - less chance of pregnancy or STD's, for a start. Guys are (slowly) beginning to lose that 'cringe' effect when the subject comes up, and will talk about homosexuality without the obligatory condemnation that I grew up with. One male student who was openly gay was one of the more popular students in his year. All this is happening in a small Catholic school in the country. Homosexuality, bisexuality, or the openness to experiment is in. Condemnation of homophobia is far more common than condemnation of homosexuality. Look at the popularity of the Sydney 'Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras' here in Australia! In ten to fifteen years, when these students now in school become the controlling population, I'd predict than homophobia will exist only in isolated pockets of minorities with their heads in the sand. And the reruns of Startrek will not attract the same devotion that the original series has for thirty years, because people will recognise the falseness inherent in it. Why would we watch a vision of the future which is obviously not going to be real? TOS, despite the bad costumes and the outdated technology, still has some of that vision of the future that we can believe in. The subsequent series TNG is already starting to look a little... 'old'. Read the fanfic all over the web - how much slash fiction is there? Shouldn't that tell you what your audience really wants? Remember that we control the ratings, and more than a few of us are beginning to lose our loyalty through our disillusionment. The advertisers might not like the idea of something as controversial as a gay scene, but they'll come back on board when the ratings soar. Please, bring Star Trek back to the ground breaking series TOS was. Remember the first interracial kiss on TV in Plato's Stepchildren? Talk about publicity! Stations banned it, the fans loved it, and it's still an incredible episode today. What about the first gay kiss on Voyager? It would make the series unforgettable - and far more realistic.

Yours sincerely,
Kim Brotherton

Subject: Hiya!
Date: Thu, 18 Sep 1997 02:13:01 -0400 (EDT)
From: T1Kuma@aol.com

oh my! how did i miss this site for so long ----- i love it (((((to say that it has been bookmarked is an understatement))))))

if you do ever get to do those combadges ----- do remember me - i would love to get a couple myself.....

thank you much tanya

Subject: Trill Addiction
From: "Vic and Moi"

Hi,

I am a regular visitor to the Gay and Lesbian Star Trek Page and would have to say that it is one of my favorites. I am currently in the process of building my own page which is called Vic's Trill Addiction, it's going to be a Lesbian Fan Fiction Page dedicated to Dax and Lenara Kahn. Categories will include Stories, poetry and images. Would love as many contributions as possible. Please spread the word.....As I said its still in the early stages but if you'd like to visit it you can find it at: http://members.tripod.com/~IVANOVA/index.html

Regards Vic.

Subject: Gay Trek Character Is Lame Idea
Date: Sun, 14 Sep 1997
From: Keith Nicholson

To Whom This May Concern,

This is a lame idea. The best episodes of Star Trek don't involve intimate personal relationships, much less homosexual relationships. Surely you must realize that if their was a gay character it would kill ratings and probably the show as well. I'm not saying it's right, just stating a fact. I've always thought Neelix is kind of fruity anyway.

Keith

*******Outspeaker Responds:

While I might agree that the episodes focusing on intimate or romantic personal relationships between crewmembers (i.e., Janeway and Chakotay, Paris and Torres) have not the been the best, largely because of the highly unlikely pairings we have seen, I must point out that every great episode (of any show) involves the relationships between characters.

Furthermore,:we do not want to focus on the gay character's sexuality any more than we focus on straight character's sexuality. Any of the existing male characters, even Paris, would make a believable gay character if not established otherwise over the course of the show to date. Personally, I think Chakotay would have been the best choice.

As for killing the ratings, they said the same thing about black people appearing on television shows that ran in the South 20 years ago. If the audience of Trek stops watching because there's a gay character, then the show should die. However, I believe the real Trek audience would have no problem with a gay character. It's in the tradition of the show. It's forces outside the traditional audience that would try to make trouble.

Anyone else want to respond to this message? I get various versions of it often enough, along with the usual hate messages.

From: Kimberly Willis
Subject: Star Trek
Date: Wed, 22 Oct 1997

Star Trek Producers,

I can safely say that Star Trek has kept me from committing suicide a number of times, during my coming out process to myself. I have grown up, lived, and worked in a rural area of Virginia. Coming home to Star Trek, whether watching a new episode or watching episodes over and over, gave me the peace and acceptance I needed to make it through the ongoing trials in my life. I have spent quite a lot of money to surround myself with Star Trek collectibles to create a "safe" place where I am welcome. I always feel welcome and accepted with anything relating to Star Trek. Please include a gay or lesbian character in current Voyager and/or Deep Space Nine episodes. One never knows who is out there searching for acceptance. Be there to help someone else.

Kim Willis Trekker

Subject: Robbie McNeal
Date: Wed, 17 Sep 1997
From:

I don't know if his thoughts and views have changed since I knew him, but I grew up here in Georgia with the man who plays Commander Paris on "Voyager," and he was extremely homophobic in the mid-eighties. And it wasn't as if he didn't know any gay people: There were plenty of us "out and proud" folk in Children's Civic Theatre, a theater group that Robbie participated in at the same time I did. He constantly refered to several of the gay people as "faggots" and constantly said that "homosex" was "not normal."

Considering that he is now directing several episodes of "Voyager," I would say that getting gay-visible episodes on the show will be nearly impossible. But good luck! You're still fighting the right fight.

Best Regards, Robert Weaver

*******Outspeaker Responds:

I hesitate to publish your letter because I don't want to unfairly malign Robert McNeill (note the spelling of the name). You could simply be someone with a grudge against Rob who is reporting an untruth --although your letter sounds believable enough. It is certainly disconcerting if this is true. I don't know how old you and Robert were when you worked together, but it is true that people often change and grow over the years, so, as you say, his opinions may have changed. I would hope that he and other current Voyager cast members would endorse our petition and prove that they are not homophobic.

Subject: Queer Trek/Transgender
Date: Tue, 16 Sep 1997
From: Pollychrome

I'm really glad that I found your site. I'd been looking for queer trek sites for some time (being both bisexual, transsexual, and life member of at least one trek group). I was pleased to come across yours.

I love the picture of Jadzia & Kira kissing, and I'm so glad that you class Jadzia as a woman (as I too am), since she's also transsexual. :) Wow....

I was going to sign the petition, but for me it isn't inclusive enough. I'd like bisexual and transgendered characters included in trek as well.

Still, it's a good site. I hope the USS Harvey Milk completes it's five year mission. :)

Cheers,
-Laura Anne Seabrook | c9704057@alinga.newcastle.edu.au

Subject: Letter to Paramount
Date: Fri, 12 Sep 1997
From: Olen McDowell

Please allow me to provide my opinion on the portrayal of gay and lesbian characters within the Star Trek venue.

In order to portray a realistic depiction of life within any pseudo society such as DS9, ST Voyager, or any other endeavor that you portray must reflect society at large for it to be palatable. Therefor, I believe that a more open portrayal or expression of gay and lesbian relationships on future DS9, ST Voyager, and other ST movies or series episodes is vital to the their continued success.

I believe that it is unwise to ignore, deny, or repress a growing culture in today's society. It is time to accept and embrace this culture.

We are your viewers. We are part of your Nielson (forgive the spelling if it is incorrect) ratings, We are a large part of your future. Please do not ignore us.

I am more that willing to address any rebuttal that you may have on this issue.

Sincerely,
Olen D. McDowell

Subject: New Voyager Character
Date: Mon, 8 Sep 1997
From: "Deborah Levinson"

And my thoughts are that if your source is accurate it's so nice to know that lesbianism can be blamed on not being allowed to grow up in a human environment.

Or my fave - "Can't trust men...." after all, I'm sure it was "male" Borgs who assimilated her.

They may be trying to make it easy for the viewers to digest - but it may be hard for me to stomach.

*******Outspeaker Responds:

Ha! You may have a point. However, remember that even if some people interpret Seven of Nine's lesbianism as being caused by her assimilation, she is going to have to meet a well-adjusted, happy lesbian crewmember in order to discover that lesbianism exists -- and that person --plus the reaction or lack of reaction of other crew members-- can make it clear that lesbianism is not caused by traumatic events, but is a normal genetic variation of human sexuality that is fully-accepted in the 24th Century.

Subject: 7 of 9 A Lesbian?
From: CathMarc@aol.com
Date: Sun, 14 Sep 1997

Just wanted to pass along my reaction to what I guess we'll have to call the news. Bear with me, as it's a bit conflicted. As am I, lately. Remember when life was simple, and right and wrong were mutually exclusive states of events?

I've finally worked out the moral dilemnas inherent in the Princess Diana/Mother Theresa comparisons. My spiritual self-esteem took a hit when I realized I'm a Diana fan and Theresa bores me. At first I was horrified to think that maybe it was because the Living Saint only wore one outfit, but even I'm not THAT shallow. I've decided to ignore what it means about our mutual relationships with men, jerky inlaws, and food, and instead concentrate on the undeniable truth that $260 million dollars from the Princess' memorial fund could, theoretically, treat a lot of lepers. It's not exactly morally sound reasoning, but hey, it kept me out of analysis and mass both. I also recently decided that it isn't mentally deficient of me to watch Martha Stewart if I tune in only for her live segments and never her taped tv show. I figure that proves that I don't actually _want_ to feel inadequate in all aspects of female life; I am actually secretly waiting for her to have a nervous breakdown. That woman has just GOTTA lose it some day, and on that day, I intend to be there. For women everywhere.

And so now, with my liberal arts education and ten years of conciousness raising already strained to the breaking point, somebody throws me *this* moral quandry, on Voyager.

I'm torn, I really am. On the one hand, I want to say to the producers: Thank you for finally doing the right thing. Your courage and foresight are to be commended. I very much look forward to meeting 7 of 9 and her romantic interests in furture episodes. It really is about time you all recognized the spirit of Gene Rodenberry and IDIC with an openly gay main character. 7 of 9 is also, unlike Dax, a _human_ character, which lends a bit more credence to the Star Trek future's optimism for young, gay viewers. I feel like celebrating.

And heaven knows, I don't want to seem to be asking for too much, here. That would be, just sooooo unlike me :^) ... but. Butbutbutbutbutbut.....

don't take this the wrong way, but, something about this also makes me want to bite somebody, hard.

I also want to ask the producers: Does the first and only visbly gay or lesbian character on the most forward-looking television series ever produced really HAVE to be someone who's been physically mutilated? Does it HAVE to be someone who's spent her entire life as a member of "the closest thing to 'pure evil' in the galaxy"? Does it HAVE to be someone who's been psychologically abused for her entire life? Does it HAVE to be someone who never had a human home, with loving parents and normal relationships? MUST we feed into the "all lesbians are radical feminists, rape victims who hate men" nonsense (good heavens, 7 of 9 hates all HUMANS, which is a bit extreme even for us radical feminists) AGAIN, and MUST we do it on STAR TREK?

Oh, I know what they'll say: picky,picky, picky. For all I know, they'll also blame my disappointment with them on PMS. After what's been done to the Janeway character on occassion, I wouldn't put that past them.

And, I admit, I may take my Trek a bit too seriously. But I maintain, this is serious stuff, and IT IS NOT TOO MUCH TO ASK FOR A NORMAL HEALTHY PERSON TO BE GAY. IT IS NOT TOO MUCH TO ASK that the first lesbian character be, say, just some nice girl from Massachusetts whose parents were the last ambassodors to Andor. Somebody normal, instead of an angry, ill-adjusted torture victim whose primary distinguishing characteristics are self-loathing and a butch haircut. THEY CAN DO THIS.

And what's more, THEY OUGHT TO DO THIS: Trekkers everywhere, some of them even more picky than I am, would appreciate that tiny acknowledgement that not only will homosexuals survive, be accepted and succeed for the next few centuries, but that they are not now and never were "made"; they are and will be BORN. (I for one would also also enjoy seeing a person with some sense finally make it out of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, thank you very much .... but there I go, getting picky again.)

And for the record, before anybody says anything, these guys disappoint me waaaaaaayyyyy more often than I menstruate.

-- Cath :]

Subject: Greetings from the USS Northstar
From: Michael Blumenreich
Date: Fri, 12 Sep 1997

We of the USS Northstar and official Chapter of Star Fleet International Fan club would like to wish you well with the USS Harvey Milk. We are based in NYC and is the only ship that openly welcomes ALL people including gays an lesbians. Our ship is very diverse with the majority of its member being gay and lesbian plus many more.

We invite you to visit our web page to learn more about us at:

http:/bway.net/~martinr/northstar.html

Sincerely,
Michael Blumenreich
Chief Of CompOps
USS Northstar
CompOps@mindspring.com

Subject: Terry Farrell Field Report
From: "SAM THORP"
Date: Sat, 06 Sep 1997

Hailing frequencies open,
Greetings from the U.S.S. Priscilla,

During my never ending quest to find good pictures of Terry Farrell, I found an interview she did after the show "Rejoined." You may have this already and want to post it. It's from Starlogs' Deep Space Nine magazine. vol. 14 (1996) pg. 9

"...even though the story is not about a gay relationship. I have several friends that are gay and I don't judge them for that. In fact, I applaud their honesty. I applaud anybody who is honest about how they feel and who they are. It's not easy for most gay people to be honest about it because they're often treated poorly. I feel badly for people who stay in the closet and secretly feel like they are living another life and they can't tell their friends or family."

It doesn't really support putting gay characters on star trek but it's a very nice thing to say.

If I find anything else I believe will be of help I let you know.

Tolerance and understanding of ALL races.
Sam

Subject: Jennifer Lien
Date: 15 Aug 1997
From: Russell

I totally agree with your comments on why Jennifer Lien may be leaving Voyager. However, I do think that the charcter has some really good episodes. The one in which Kes is possessed of the spirit of that warrior guy and she battles him from within her mind. Sorry can't remember the title. (Editor: The episode was "Warlord") Anyway, if Ms. Lien does leave I will be very dissapointed. I really Like her character, we've only begun to see the extent of her mental powers. Telepaths have always been my favorite type characters. Thank you for listening!! Russell.

********Outspeaker Responds:

Here are the comments Russell is referring to:

A more important question might be: why is Jennifer Lien leaving? Because of uninspired, juvenile writing and plot lines? Because of a lack of vision? Because Berman's kid is writing scripts? Or is it because Jennifer sees her character as being much more sexual --and not just heterosexual-- since she only lives nine years (why waste time like slow-to-reach-sexual-maturity, sexually-repressed humans?) and the producers refuse to acknowledge or pursue that line of thinking?

Subject: Gay Characters
Date: Thu, 07 Aug 1997
From: "Adam D."

I just want to say that I did sign your petition and I am all for your cause. I understand what Paramount is doing, but I still do not like it. I was in the military for thirteen years, and no I did not leave because I was gay, so I understand the homophobia people have towards us. I would like to state that I would rather have no homosexual character than to have one that is a flamboyant stereo-type.

I am really tired of the way gay people have been handled by the media, everytime we are seen in movies and television, we are portrayed as either flaming queens or macho leather studs, or even worse as child molesters. It isn't fair to those of us that are normal, everyday people who lead average lives. The prominant gay actors aren't much help either, I love everything Harvey Firestein does, yet what he portrays is what people think of us.

I have a friend of mine, who is heterosexual, told me that until he met me and other friends of mine, that he would have never thought of associating with us because we were gay. And he didn't know that until we told him. I hope you are successful in pressing the point about the character, but I hope it isn't the caricature that they are so fond of, which will only damage the respect that we are gaining so slowly.

Sincerely,
Adam J. Duet Jr.

Subject: Rainbow Voyager Scene
Date: Sun, 3 Aug 1997
From: LestatIN@aol.com

Just read your first scene, and I really enjoyed it. Have been a big fan of all the Star Trek series and wish that such an episode would occur in Voyager"s next season. Can't wait to read scene two.

*******Outspeaker Responds:

Thanks. I'm working on getting a second installment up in August or September.

Subject: Trek-related slash fiction
Date: Thu, 10 Jul 1997
From: Drksider1@aol.com

Just wanted to tell you how much I enjoy the site........especially the storyline you have created......speaking of storylines...have you checked out Nova D.'s site The Secret Logs of Mistress Janeway? It is a 27 chapter story line focusing on B&D and Janeways pursuit of a circle of iniates into her sensual realm......with Kim being the first, followed by Paris and then Torres. I know little or nothing about B&D, and as a gay male, I found the het sex and lesbian bits merely "okay"....but the scenes with Paris/Kim and Paris/Chakotay are hot! The writing is above excellent and she knows her characters, situations and the ongoing television season inside and out. You get so involved with the characters through Janeway's first person perspective that reading it is an adventure in itself. Nova includes other character such as Picard, Spock, Kirk and McCoy, although not always sexually. It is a good read.

Enjoy it and thanks for the site!

*******Outspeaker Responds:

Even though a large percentage of people are unwilling to admit it, most enjoy slash fiction and/or seeing familiar or favorite literary, film or television characters in sexual situations. (There's also an element of satire and humor in slash.) I believe that the interest is heightened by the fact that our Puritanical culture so often ignors or glosses over sexual situations, though in certain television programs that seems to be finally changing. (But witness the strong counter-reaction.) I certainly believe television should be more candid, not less, about sexuality, nudity and the human body. (Compare European and Asian television commercials and programming to the U.S. and consider the fact that the networks refuse to air ads for condoms in a middle of an epidemic of sexually-transmitted diseases.) A television program like Star Trek, which only features minimal, vanilla sexuality -- although the hetereosexual preferences of its characters are constantly re-enforced and featured characters are constantly being matched up in hetereosexual pairings-- is particularly frustrating. Hence, all the interest in slash fiction on the part of both heterosexuals and gays/lesbians. For gays/lesbians, the attraction is probably even stronger, because even if we do see rarely see ourselves portrayed on television, our characters are often asexual --identified as gay or lesbian but not seen in loving partnerships. See Al Keilwasser's current MediAlert column (8-11-97) for an assessment of the current state of gay/lesbian sexuality on television.

However, I need to point out that, although this site publishes slash in the sense that we base our characters on characters in the Star Trek fictional universe, stories published here are not intended to focus only on erotic sexual action. Our mission is to demonstrate how gay and lesbian characters can be portrayed in a variety of ways and to tell intriguing science fiction stories. That is not to say that we will de-sex our characters --or refuse to publish stories containing graphic sexual scenes --and sexual themes in fiction are certainly legitimate. However, sexual coupling should not be the total focus of any story published at this site.

On the other hand, I do provide links to slash stories and members of USSHM/PS/VVP have access to a members-only archive of such stories, stories that individual members find particularly compelling and want to share or stories submitted by members.

Subject: Campaign to Out Garak
Date: Wed, 09 Jul 97
From: "Gul Ishara"

Just a quick note which I feel I should mention:

There is a site, called "Campaign to Out Elim Garak of DS9". It's basically a campaign to Paramount saying that they should have the character Elim Garak come out of the closet on the air. I am not gay myself, but I am a strong supporter of gay rights, and as such, I think Star Trek should make provisions for this increasing issue in our society. Please make a link on your page to this site, I would very much appreciate it!

Gul Ishara

"And the moral of the story, my dear, is to never underestimate my gift for survival." Garak, ST:DS9, "Call to Arms"

*******Outspeaker Responds:

I'm sorry to say that Gaytrek cannot support this particular effort.

We believe that Star Trek needs to portray a fully human gay or lesbian character, a positive, openly gay person that is regarded as just another crewmember in the 24th century. We believe that it is important to show that gay and lesbian people will exist in the future. We won't all die of AIDS. Science won't discover a single gay gene or a "cure" and eliminate us --because we are a natural and random part of the human genetic equation.

It would be too easy to dismiss alternative sexuality in an alien character as peculiar to the alien species and not relevant to "real life". Star Trek has yet to explore all the alternative ways species might reproduce --from asexual reproduction to a process that incorporates five or ten sexes. Let them explore that using aliens. We want a human character.

The character of Dax has been successfully employed to comment on gender issues because Dax is a symbiot of two species. A slug-like creature, who lives for hundreds of years and greatly enhances the intellect of the combined being and has lived several lives as a male, is currently joined with body of a beautiful humanoid female. It occurrs to us that it would be very easy for the average viewer to dismiss any female-female sexual activity by Dax as being caused by that slug-thing inside her --as an "unnatural" act "forced" the humanoid body by the alien inhabitant rather than as an orientation that is inborn in the human host.

The fact is that Garak is a villian. Although he is a fascinating character and apparently he has some redeeming qualities, he is not intended to be an admirable character. Like Quark, Garak is a foil for the real heros of DS9, a very flawed straw man beside whom the Federation characters pop out. Garak is also a gay stereotype, a man who designs and sews clothing. He is a brilliant conversationalist, witty and well-educated, but cruel, catty, sneaky and untrustworthy. Although he appears to be an outcast, he may still be a spy for an alien government that opposes the Federation. Worst of all, he tortured and murdered Bajorans during the resistance --and apparently enjoyed his job. (He's also not the prettiest thing we've seen on Trek.) Do we really want Garrak to represent all gay and lesbian people in the Star Trek universe? I don't think so.

Don't get me wrong ... we don't want a goody two shoes, somebody so good and perfect they are as interesting as pablum. The character needs to have interesting conflicts, flaws and idiosyncracies, just like everybody else. But on the balance, the character should be as attractive, heroic and admirable as any of the other positive role models on the series.

Andrew Robinson is an excellent actor and I admire his frank and positive comments about the character. But Garak is not Julian Bashir or Jake Sisko --or even Miles O'Brien.

Furthermore, there has never been any mention of sexual desire or sexual relationships between Garak and anyone, let alone Dr. Bashir. This is all surmise, smoke and mirrors, wishful thinking. It is a matter of interpretation. And it is an interpretation that has been encouraged by Paramount, starting from the time gay and lesbian fans began petitioning Gene Roddenberry and the studio to create a lesbian/gay character.

Ironically, and as usual with Paramount, it's an interpretation that was encouraged up until the point it began to be discussed openly among all fans and people began to ask Paramount to develop Garak as a gay character. Then, suddenly, Garak was involved with Gul Dulcat's half-Bajoran daughter. Where have we seen this before? Wesley Crusher, Tasha Yar, Ro Laren, Data, Kira, Odo ... the list goes on and on.

Subject: Scene I'd Like To See in "Remember"
Date: Sat, 28 Jun 1997
From: "Matthew McLauchlin"

I think it would have been really neat in "Remember" if either B'Elanna's lover had been a woman, or if Rokhana had chosen to share her memory with a male crew member (Harry?) rather than B'Elanna.

BTW: Harry and Tom are the two characters (of any gender) that I'd most like to see get together on Voyager.

*******Outspeaker Responds:

Good suggestion. A heterosexual character caught up in compelling dreams of a same sex relationship would have offered more chances to show that men and women of the Twentieth Century are not particularly upset by the fact that they are dreaming of a same-sex relationship, although it may be a first-time or unusual event in view of the fact that they know their sexual preference, but more upset by the haunting nature and intensity of the dreams, which immerse them in an alien culture. Of course, although these characters have been established on the show as hetereosexual, it also might have allowed either one to reveal past same-sex relationships.

Subject: Heterosexual Asks "Why Are Gays Okay in "Rent" & Not Trek?"
Date: Thu, 19 Jun 97
From: Name Withheld By Request

I am a heterosexual fan of star trek; i have been a fan since tng's inception, and i have thought since that inception that there should be gay and lesbian characters.

has anyone realized that it has only been these past few centuries that the homosexual stigma has come about? in ancient greece, every other man was either gay or a pedophile. but does anyone condemn any of the philosophers? when men had harems, the women would often turn to lesbian pleasures for lack of other pleasures. it's only now that gayness is such a stigma. why is that, i wonder?

the producers and what-not at star trek say that the 20th century public is not ready for gay characters. does anyone find it odd that the broadway musical rent, which features a lesbian couple and a gay couple, complete with transvestite (who makes a very attractive woman, i might add) has won tonys, pulitzer prizes, sold out shows, and standing ovations? i also find it very interesting that all of the gay characters, including the cross-dresser, are played by straight actors, while the two openly gay actors play straight characters.

i think the producers at trek dont know what they're missing by not having gay characters. and if they're so prejudiced that they can't possibly put homosexuals in regular (or any) roles, why don't they try not making their regular characters openly straight. i would like to see one show where no one's sexual identity can be discerned. everyone would seem wooden, depthless. becuase sexual identity is an itergral part of everyone. i don't follow ds9 that often, so i have a question.

has it ever been addressed that dax has more than likely had both male and female lovers? i would think that living in both male and female bodies, having sex with both kinds, would influence me somehow.

*******Outspeaker Responds:

I'm sure we would here some noise about how "New York" or "theatre" audiences are different. What's really interesting is that "Rent" is supposed to be theatre's sucessful attempt to reach out to a younger generation, yet Paramount uses the fact of its own younger audience as a reason Star Trek cannot portray a gay/lesbian character. Paramount/Viacom simply refuses to get it.

Regarding the character of Dax, see Reaction to Rejoined, our comment on an episode of Deep Space Nine, in which Dax breaks a Trill taboo by rekindling a relationship with a mate from a past life, a mate which also has a female humanoid host.

Subject: Roddenberry on Gay Affair
Date: Wed, 28 May 1997
From: "SAM THORP"

Recently, I read a book titled: "Gene Rodenberry-The Last Conversation", in which Roddenberry was interviewed by Yvonne Fern. (Pocket Books, NY 1996)

I don't know if you are familiar with it; It's a great book for any fan but there are some passages in it that you should be very interested in.

"I'm sorry I never had a homosexual relationship, because I know there must be many joys and pleasures and degrees of closeness in those relationships."--pg. 168-169

Those are Gene's own words. Really.

" I could do a show about homosexuality, for example, and have half the audience cheering me on. Well, in the case of our audience, not half. I hope we have a greater percentage of enlightenment than that in our fans. But to do a pro-gay episode --or any other controversal issue-- you have to do this ... a little at a time."--pg 173

This was Rodenberry's vision. That should be all the reason the executives at the Star Trek machine need. It should be all the reason the real fans need. We need to remind them of it. I hope this helps you out.

I personally don't like Voyager all that much. It's a watered down TNG. I would have liked to see more pro gay episodes in DS9. There was a lot of potential in Dax's character. They may have hinted at a relationship between Dax and Kira, Dax and Leeta; but for the most part it was wasted opportunity.

Sam
samthor@hotmail.com
A fight to the death with a zombie has a few inherent problems.

*******Outspeaker Responds:

Ironically enough, I have a copy of this book ... but haven't had a chance to read it. Thanks for the information. I'll check it out.

Subject: Voyager Visibility Project
Date: Mon, 26 May 1997
From: L.A. Swartz

I just wanted to drop a line to say what a wonderful site you have going. I remember hearing that the first interracial kiss was on the original Star Trek series, between Kirk and Uhura if memory serves. I also recall an episode on ST :TNG in which an alien from a unisex race falls in love with Riker. Although a nice attempt, at the time I thought it was still dodging the issue somewhat. To truly stick to the vision of unity and non-prejudice in the future that ST was meant to project, a gay or lesbian character is not an option but a necessity.

Thanks again for the site, L.A. Swartz

Subject: Time To Call Out the Gayquis
Date: Mon, 26 May 1997
From: duri97@prtc.net (duri97)

Stardate:05269.7
Hello, I was surfing and browsing the net when I found your STAR TREK site. Just wanted to thank you, all of you who are behind the Gay Star Trek page. It is time to let the people at Paramount Pictures that there are different persons around the world that enjoy and love Star Trek. I am one of the biggest fans that the series could have, also gay and single, because I can't find any one with my passion for these series. It's true that there should be gay characters in the series. I think there are. There have to be some on board Voyager or DS9; it's just that we haven't heard their stories.

Hope the Paramount people can hear our frequencies out there in the vastness of space. If not, I think they should hear the cry of the "GAYQUIS". Thank you!!

LIVE LONG AND PROSPER!
KAH'PLAH!
DAVID CALDERON, PUERTO RICO.

Subject: Thoughts About The Portrayal of GLBT Trek Characters
Date: Mon, 26 May 1997
From: Name Withheld By Request

I am a rabid and devoted fan of Star Trek in all of its incarnations and I am extremely pleased to discover by the existence of your website that I am not the only gay person in the world who is interested in Star Trek! However, I am dismayed, to say the least, by the information you have provided concerning the unwillingness of the post-Roddenberry era producers and creative directors of the various shows to make any move to include lesbians/gay males/bisexuals of any life-form in the storylines or societal fabrics therein.

Personally, I suspect they may be under some infernal gag-order by Paramount or Viacom CEOs or the like to avoid the topic for fear of offending more conservative elements of American society. If this is the case, I am unsure what action may convince the persons in question that this is not going to be ignored, and has to change.

I am hopeful that, for lesbians at least, the coming out of Ellen Degeneres on camera and in the real world will signal a turning point for the potential existence of lesbian characters on television. Gay males and bisexuals may have to wait for their own Ellen to take a brave step forward and pave the way for others to follow.

I have little hope for any established Deep Space Nine or Voyager characters coming out or even having a same-sex fling (not an unlikely prospect even for established straight characters-just look at the Kinsey Report!).

Even the campaign to out Elim Garak may hit a snag because of his brand-new attraction to Gul Dukat's daughter Ziyal. Hopefully, if there is a fifth series....(yeah, I know, dream on, huh?) our community may be finally honored and respected with a fully realized gay male, lesbian, bisexual or even transgendered character that is a human.

Although I would also like to see aliens who fit this category; if aliens can be depicted in a variety of racial somatotypes, sexual and gender categories should be explored, and I am as interested in the alien races of Star Trek as I am in humanity's fate.

If there is an episode on the existing series that deals with a gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender storyline, my opinion is that it should be more than a "he/she just happens to be gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgendered" and no more than that. Not after being kept waiting this long!! I'd like to see some "future history" of the gay movement or a retelling of a watershed event that finally brought the monster of anti- gay/bi/transgender/whatever-pre judice to its knees, and destroyed it!! I think that we ought to have the issue probed at least once, if not many times.

And I am very aware that this is a total pipe dream or at odds with the majority of gay, bisexual and trangendered people who just want to be there and noticed for their personhood, and not their sexuality or gender. I'd be perfectly happy with the chance to see a gay/bi/lesbian/transgendered person and not have a big deal made about their difference; it'd be better than being invisible like we are now!

However, if alien cultures and human ideas can be as fully thematic to episodes as they are, an exploration of sexual identity or gender identity seems an appropriate topic to me as well. I hope that future Star Trek novels can also be a fertile ground for gender and sexual identity issues to be explored. We should not ignore that aspect of Star Trek; millions of novels are sold each year and I myself enjoy them almost as much as I do the television episodes.

I hope that your website continues to enjoy success and grow in scope, and I will visit it as often as possible. I also hope that our contingent of fans is eventually as strong a voice as the rest of Star Trek fandom. We deserve to be heard as well. Sincerely,
Jeffrey

Subject: Thank God for Gaytrek
Date: Thu, 22 May 1997
From: Khoi and Kevin

I am so happy to see your site on the web. As. a gay man and SF/Fantasy/Horror fan, I am delighted by what you are doing. I can hardly wait until everything is set up. For me, SF has always stood for the possibility of a world in which all differences can be accepted and allowed full expression. SF has allowed me to grow so much as a person and I think your site will be of great benefit to Gay/Lesbian and Bisexual people.

Subject: Will "Ellen" Help Get Paramount Off the Pot?
Date: Tue, 6 May 1997
From: Curtis Lyle Lawrence

I was quite pleased to discover your website, it is nice to know that there are individuals who have realised that there is something missing from Gene Roddenberry's (bow yer head NOW!) vision of the future. However, since I come from a small town that was built up with strong traditions (although they've basically fallen appart since the decline of the fishery and mines), I seldom find any other people who have also noticed this, or care. In fact, most of the Trek fans I know are more interested in the futuristic violence than in the people the stories are about (they like things that go boom).

I fully support the Visibilty Project's goals to get at least one of the current Trek shows to have at least a gay/lesbian presence if not a character or two, or three, or...

Perhaps with Ellen Degeneres' coming out you'll have more pull. If the Ellen show proves to be successful with the new revelations( toaster ovens and all) Paramount might be a little less ... (what's a good word? Oh!) ... chickenshit! Now they don't have to be the first ones to GO OUT on a limb with a regular, positive, gay person as opposed to doorMatt-the- Melrose-boy.

Also, with big names like Oprah, Patrick Stewart, and what's-his- name from Seinfeld okaying these ideas in one way or another, calling for not just tolerance, but respect, and at least an open dialogue about the issues, I believe you may see a change coming sooner than you may think.

Pity it's just a little behind schedule.

If there is anything the young homosexuals/nontraditional- sexuality-types need (I think I should know since I think I'm not breeding stock AND I'm young), it is a positive role model who isn't a doorMatt or a "i hate myself for being gay, i hate the world for making me hate myself for being gay" character. It should be someone who has flaws, but isn't an opportunistic hedonist like Ashely MacIssac (if you don't know who he is check out the Celtic music/alternate rock circles in Canada). By the way, I'm not deliberately attacking Ashely (or anyone else) for his sex practices ("watersports" and alleged "super-promiscuity"). It's just that I think that young people should be exposed to a character who is responsible about his/her sexlife. Of course, AIDS doesn't exist in the 24th century, but it couldn't hurt to be mindfull of whom your sleeping with and how your sleeping with them. That should apply for everyone anyways, not that I mean to tell anyone how to live their lives.

Sorry, I'm sermonising.

Keep up thy valiant efforts for a better tomorrow, Excelsior!
C.Law

Subject: Loved your site but discouraged
Date: Tue, 06 May 97
From: jmosel1@ibm.net

It is beautiful! I'm not through all the links yet, so I'll drop back later (probably take more than another trip to take it all in). I signed the petition, but feel really discouraged about it. Maybe 'Ellen' will make a difference in this situation as well, so my hope is not totally gone.

Regards, Jay

Subject: Interest in Dax
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997
From: "Vic & Wai"

Hi I've been looking in on your great site since I joined the web a few months ago. I'm based in Sydney, Australia. But would very much like to hear from other lesbian and gay trek fans, you are free to pass on my email to any DAX fans. Regards, Vic.

Subject: Response From Ms. Barrett-Roddenberry
Date: Thursday, April 24, 1997
From: "James \"Ed\" Reid"

I agree that this does seem like the response from a form letter. I think that Ms. Barrett-Rodenberry may support the view of your organization. I think that attempts should be made to catch her at a convention to speak to her in person. Also I would like to hear Will Wheaton's view on this matter.

Outspeaker Note:

This email refers to Majel Barrett's disappointing letter to VVP posted on our Response from Paramount, Cast & Crew page.

Subject: What's Up?
Date: Thur, 24 Apr 1997
From: Name Withheld By Request

Just wanted to say that I love your web site!! I'm not gay, but I am a fan of Star Trek and I definitely think that some gay charactors should be included in the show. Of all portrayals of the future, a "Star Trek" view of the future would most definitely be tolerant of openly gay people (or aliens!!). In fact, Star Trek should lead the way in portraying homosexuals much more positively than other programs and movies!! Keep it up! I'll be visiting again soon!!!!

Subject: Outing Janeway
Date: Tue, 15 Apr 1997
From: shari weiss

I think it would be interesting to see the duality of Janeway's character portrayed more. The producers are always careful to present her caring and nurturing side to mostly the male members of her crew. I think it would be fascinating to see an alien female board the ship in an episode where Janeway becomes attracted to her and they have a brief affair....if not a long lasting one. It could be a woman from a society that has eliminated all boundaries of sexual repression...where all members of that society are entitled to bond freely with whomever they choose based on personality traits and spiritual connection, not on being male or female. This would be a good way of keeping consistent with other storylines of other Startrek series.

Live Long and Prosper,
Shari Weiss

Subject: Just in Time For Aussie Mardi Gras
Date: Sat, 15 Feb 1997
From: Chris Mehl

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I had a wonderful time visiting your site. It is very affirming, in this, Sydney's Mardi Gras lead-up time, to stumble upon a site as wonderful as yours. Keep it up! Live long, and prosper.

Subject: Star Trek to Star Drek: Rapid Decay into Fecal Matter
Date: Tue, 21 Jan 1997
From: "R. Shane Goodrum"

As a trekie since the 60s, I have found from my experience that Mr. Roddenbberry's wish for a better society has decayed into a pile of fecal material. In the 60s, he guided his show to a resolution without violence for both children and adults alike. It is a shame that in order to get suspense and interest you find it necessary to destroy million of victims every week. This is definitely not the original.

The fact that after 30 years there is no mention of many issues: the right to die, abortion, wars on earth, changes in lifestyle, the disintegration of the family and the acceptance of homosexuals. The closest was an episode where Dr. Crusher fell in love with a simbiot (like DAX) and the host changed from male to female. Now the person she loved was a woman. That was the closest you got.

The producers don't have a problem placing Kirk in the arms of a shapeshifter. Is being interracial more important an issue than interracial relationships? I adore and admire all the characterizations created through Star Trek, from Spock to Tuvok. I celebrate each of the actors performances (many of whom you can find daily on cartoons like Gargoyles or PBS Reading Rainbow).

However, I have always been disappointed that number one was not allowed to remain as number one (refer to the Menagerie I & II). Is this the same way we will deal with homosexuality? Hide our face. Well, I guess it worked for Majel Barrett back then. I do want his widow to know how deeply his loss affected me, since I am living with AIDS. The virus might go away if we can only focus on the real issues of importance and not petty predjudices.

Subject: What Happened to Gay Character in First Contact?
Date: Fri, 17 Jan 1997
From: jfruh@uclink4.berkeley.edu (Josh Fruhlinger)

Hello, I found your web page and wanted to comment. I am a straight Star Trek fan and I think you folks are right on the money! Just a couple questions for y'all, if you have time to answer:

1) I had heard the rumor that Lt. Hawk, who ran the helm (I think) in "Star Trek: First Contact" was intended to be a gay character. None of this came through in the final product as near as I can tell. (Of course, nobody had much time to express sexuality in that movie, except Data, I guess.) Then I read an inteview with (I think) Ron Moore that said Hawk's sole purpose was "to offer a view on the bridge that was not one of the main crew," and, as became obvious in the movie, to get killed. What's the deal?

2) I understand the drive to put a visible gay recurring character in the Star Trek universe. But why Voyager? First of all, I think it's a crappy show, but that's just personal opinion. But from a logistical standpoint, it seems to me that it would be easier to introduce a new character on DS9. The only new people they meet on Voyager are the the numerous species with funny heads that inhabit the Gamma Quadrant.

Anyway, good luck, and keep up the good fight!

Josh
Dept. of History
U. of California at Berkeley
http://www.geocities.com/Athens/3044/index.html

"Gentlemen, you can't fight in here. This is the War Room." --Peter Sellers, "Dr. Strangelove"

Subject: Babylon Five "Divided Loyalties"
Date: Wed, 15 Jan 1997
From: Peter Oertel

I'm a Babylon 5 fan from Germany (and also gay) and wanted to comment on the material you put together about multisexual characters in SciFi series.

I must admit, that I didn't notice the intimate relationship between Ivanova and Talia in" Divided Loyalties" on first seeing. I only realized the implied meaning (especially Talia reaching over to find Ivanova gone) when Ivanova confessed her love for Talia in "Ceremonies of Light and Dark".

In this episode, Ivanova treats her feelings for Talia as a secret and it is not clear whether she does so because of the personal nature of her feelings or because she is in love with a woman.

I never noticed multi-sexual people in Babylon 5, but I will look more closely from now on. Is there any gay and lesbian oriented website devoted to Babylon 5 that you know of?

I think it would be very interesting to have a file of all the non-heterosexual scenes in Babylon 5.

Thanks for and keep up the good work