Accompanied by a photo of herself with Nichols, Abrams wrote,”One of my most treasured photos - Godspeed to Nichelle Nichols, champion, warrior and tremendous actor. Her kindness and bravery lit the path for many. May she forever dwell among the stars. #RIPNichelle #Uhura”

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Even Wonder Woman herself, Lynda Carter, acknowledged the actress’ impact, tweeting, “Many actors become stars, but few stars can move a nation. Nichelle Nichols showed us the extraordinary power of Black women and paved the way for a better future for all women in media. Thank you, Nichelle. We will miss you.”

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I’ve always been an awkward, weird kid who didn’t fit in. Growing up, there were very few places where I felt comfortable. One of those was in front of my television, watching Star Trek. My favorite character has always been Lt. Uhura.

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Nichelle Nichols gave me a role model in a space where there weren’t many other people who looked like me. As a nerdy Black girl who loved comic books and sci-fi/fantasy, I got a lot of so-called “fans” telling me this wasn’t my world and I wasn’t allowed. My stubbornness wouldn’t let me listen to those jerks, but I also knew that if Uhura was on my TV every night, there was definitely a place for me.

After years of missing my chance at previous conventions, a few years ago at Los Angeles Comic-Con, I finally got the honor of meeting my idol and it was just as amazing as I thought it would be. As I told her how much I loved and admired her, something she’s likely heard thousands of times, she humbly thanked me for being a lifelong fan, and even complimented me on my Uhura cosplay. It’s one of the highlights of my life and one of my all-time favorite memories.

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The Root Staff Writer Stephanie Holland with Nichelle Nichols at Los Angeles Comic Con in October 2015.
The Root Staff Writer Stephanie Holland with Nichelle Nichols at Los Angeles Comic Con in October 2015.
Photo: Stephanie Holland

For me, and countless others, Nichelle Nichols was an inspiration and role model who told us no matter what the rest of the world or galaxy says, we belong. Her legacy is found in all the scientists, activists, artists, authors and innovators who are following a trail that she bravely blazed for us.

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Thank you, and rest easy.