Hi there. I just wanted to discuss something positive and uplifting. As we surely all know, Star Trek has a very big fandom that is super inclusive and positive (for the most part). Had a thought that for many fans, their passion is life-long. Maybe it would be nice to share a positive memory (maybe a few) you associate with Trek; whatever you are comfortable sharing. I kick it off (my list is chronological).

1. Getting to go on The Klingon Encounter at Star Trek: The Experience in Las Vegas, Nevada. It was a family trip, I was seven (I recently found out I was off by year) in 1998. My grandfather was working at the time for a Chinese apparel brand. He took us to an industry convention he was attending for work. So my mom took me to the Hilton. There was walls of Borg statues, actors dressed as Klingons walking the casino. Only got to go on The Klingon Encounter, a Star Tours style ride. The premise is an entertainment experience with live actors which you are mysteriously transported to the future where you switch places with Picard. Klingons are behind it. They believe your group has an ancestor among you. You head to a transporter to escape to a shuttlecraft, and flee the Klingons. The chase eventually leads you over The Las Vegas Strip. The ride also included pre-recorded video from TNG cast as part of the story.

2. Watching ENT when it first broadcast. I was ten years old. As an aside, I’ve always lived with my maternal grandparents. Anyways, my grandfather was excited for it. He let me stay up late on Wednesdays to watch with him. It was the first series (pretty much the only from start to end) I watched first broadcast. Watched every episode with him.

3. Finally going to my first convention, STLV (formerly Star Trek Las Vegas) this year. Such an incredible four days that I can never forget. Getting to see the community up close changes how important this means. Everyone was such wonderful people. The one public event I’ve attended in my life where I felt truly accepted and safe.