It’s with sadness that I write that Nichelle Nichols has passed away.
The Star Trek character of Officer Lt. Uhura was one that shaped my view of the world as a child in the 1960s. For me black women belonged as people of responsibility who made things work, all because of her. She was not only part of, but important . She was there in front of me every week in a show I idolized. I had no idea that women of color weren’t actually equal in any way at the time as I was too young. Therefore her character shaped this young white boy’s view of the world toward equality and acceptance. For that I am grateful.
For many people, especially those of color, she was an inspiration at a time of oppression and segregation.
I had the honor of meeting her in person at Comic Con in 2018.
Nichelle Nichols and Fearsome at San Diego Comic Con (SDCC) July 21, 2018
In my hand is a toy called a Pop. It was of her as Uhura and she signed it. I treasure it and this photo today. As you can see we shared a moment of joy together. Her support staff was so taken with her obsession with Fearsome they even took photos with their phones for themselves. We were all laughing as she tugged on him. Her presence uplifted me that day and I’ll never forget the moment. She was truly a beautiful woman with a beautiful soul.
Nichelle, thank you for shaping a generation toward betterment. You’ve left behind a legacy that will not be forgotten as you have given inspiration to millions.
Godspeed.
Uhura Pop
Fearsome Beard 
And the world has lost another bright soul.
Thanks Fearsome! As a young Black male (totally clueless that I was/am GAY!) she represented the strength I saw in my Mother and her friends – other Black women
She is one of my heroines. It’s a sad day today. So wonderful that you got to meet her and have that wonderful photo as a memento!
What a woman! Warrior Queen!