In the 1960s, progressives like Gene Roddenberry imagined a future where words weren’t used as weapons. A scene from a 1969 “Star Trek” episode shows this hope. Captain Kirk introduces Uhura to Abraham Lincoln, who innocently uses an outdated (and now considered racist) term. Uhura responds kindly, saying, “But why should I object to that term, sir? In our century, we’ve learned not to fear words.” This moment, with Nichelle Nichols, inspires me to believe in a future where people are educated to see that words in themselves don’t cause harm!

Today, I sometimes feel we’ve gone backwards. Some people act like thought police, while right-wingers use hurtful words to provoke. For me, allowing words to divide us is failing. “Star Trek” portrays a world where words help us connect and understand each other. With more open conversation and respect, we inevitably create a future where words bring us together, not tear us apart.

If nothing else, note the level of civility in this 30-second scene!!!

Have a good day, all!

Matt