Star Trek: 10 Biggest Takeaways From Open A Channel: A Woman's Trek
1. Things Have Improved Exponentially
When speaking to Jess Bush, Visitor reflected on the difference between the hiring practices of yesteryear and today. For example, when asked if she had ever been asked for sexual favours in return for a role, Bush seemed genuinely shocked at the idea.
Buildings would burn!
That this was her reaction shows that there has been a shift in the way Hollywood works. In the '60s, it was more or less expected that sex would be part of any deal. In the 2020s, a demand for sex would be followed with a swift kick up the arse. And rightly so.
The book does make it clear that conditions for women in Star Trek have vastly improved, even if there is still a bit to go. Star Trek: Discovery made massive headway with representation and equality. Sonequa Martin-Green not only delivered a fantastic performance as Captain Michael Burnham but, as the executive producer, fought for a better workplace for everyone on the show.
Gene Roddenberry may have dreamed of a better future for humanity, even if the constraints of his time didn't live up to those ideals. Things have improved - meaning there really is hope for a brighter tomorrow for everyone - regardless of gender.