10 Biggest LGBTQIA+ Moments In Star Trek
9. Adira And The Introduction Of Non-Binary Characters
Blu del Barrio joined the cast of Star Trek: Discovery in its third season, portraying the non-binary character Adira Tal. Del Barrio is the first openly non-binary actor to have been cast in the franchise, so both in front of and behind the camera, they are making strides in representation.
The audience knew before the season began that their character would also be non-binary, though Adira is referred to as 'she' for the first few episodes. This was a little jarring, as very little was being said about why this misgendering was continuing. However, this was to lead up to their moment of coming out.
The scene is so understated that it is a fantastic comment on how acceptance has changed in the universe. Adira, in conversation with Stamets, reveals that they feel neither truly male nor female, and that they should simply be referred to as 'them'. Stamets barely blinks an eye at this, adapting immediately to Adira's preferred pronouns, and that's that.
This is a wonderful scene for the franchise to include, as it shows that coming out and accepting oneself as their authentic selves does not need to be met with shock or a huge discussion. Stamets is a stand-in for how the writers wish the audience to react. They learn new information, they adapt, and they continue.
As it should be.