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A monthly conversation about social change and activism that goes beyond the convention circuit to spotlight real-world changemakers and organizations.
This month, we’re honored to welcome Dr. Chanda Prescod-Weinstein to the TREKtivsm Podcast. Dr. Prescod-Weinstein, author of “The Disordered Cosmos: A Journey into Dark Matter, Spacetime, and Dreams Deferred” is an Associate Professor of Physics and Core Faculty Member in Women’s and Gender studies at the University of New Hampshire. Essence Magazine recognized her as one of 15 Black women Who Are Paving the Way in STEM and Breaking Barriers. Her scientific work intersects particle physics, cosmology, and astrophysics. Our amazing conversation with Dr. Prescod-Weinstein spans the hunt for Dark Matter, Queer and Black representation in STEM, Palestine, feminism, and aiming for that Star Trek future.
Dr. Chanda Prescod-Weinstein’s site: https://chanda.science
Other Organizations talked about in this episode:
Dark Sky International
African American Women in Physics
Heather Rae and Matthew interview Efaon Cobb, previous Trektivism panelist and Deputy Director for the ACLU. Efaon discusses his life story, what led him to practice law, and how he became involved with the ACLU.
CW: This episode contains discussion of sexual assault and police brutality.
Heather and Matthew interview Kitty Swink, Armin Shimerman, and John Bilingsley about the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and the upcoming Purple Stride event.
You can support the Trek Against Pancreatic Cancer Team by going to www.purplestride.org click donate, donate to a team, and search for “Trek Against Pancreatic Cancer” as your chosen team. The team is also high in the leaderboard which you can find at the bottom of the main page. And we’ve also included the team’s fundraiser link below. Purple Stride is Saturday, April 27th and on the Purple Stride website you can also find a stride near you!
Heather, Rae Barker and Matthew Cimone interview Mike Simmons, founder, and CEO of Astronomy for Equity. Astronomy for Equity uses the proven ability of astronomy to foster inclusive programs that inspire, educate, and provide hope for unserved communities.
The discussion explores Mike’s personal history with astronomy and why he founded his organization; the importance of building community and hope by bringing telescopes to refugees and others without accessibility to see the stars; why you should make the Trek to view a solar eclipse; and more!
Heather Rae Barker and Matthew Cimone recap TrekTalks 3 followed by their TrekTalks panel “Trektivism as Community Building” featuring Yez from LA Away Team; Mel from Sid City Social Club; Mark from Star Trek Family; and Ethan from Trek The Vote.
Matthew Cimone and Heather Rae Barker introduce the concept of Trektivism, its history, and evolution of the podcast, as well as a bit about their own backgrounds and efforts in activism.
Each month, our hosts Matthew and Heather interview someone who serves as a catalyst for change. Each guest explores their activist journeys through the lens of the iconic franchise: How did Star Trek inspire them to take action, and how does their cause further Gene Roddenberry’s vision of the future?
In-depth interviews with people who are catalysts for change, implementing the real work in all spectrums of society to get us closer to Roddenberry’s vision of the future. Interviews will cover each guest’s personal journey getting from there to here—what inspired them to do the work, how they got involved, an exploration of their work or cause, and how it connects to Star Trek or other positive visions of the future.”
Heather Rae Barker is the cohost of the Trektivism Podcast and Mission Log: LIVE Strange New Worlds. Heather Rae has served as a consultant and Ambassador for The Roddenberry Foundation and established FANSGIVEBACK, a pay it forward fan initiative utilizing crowdfunding and upcycling to share Star Trek with fans in need. Heather also helps manage several convention and fan groups within the Star Trek community.
Matthew Cimone founded the non-profit organization Esther’s Echo. The organization is partnered with Esther Kanu, a local Sierra Leonean woman who started a school for vulnerable women and girls during the Sierra Leone Blood Diamond civil war. Since 2012, Esther’s Echo has supported the graduation of over 600 women. Matthew can be found driving the Star Theatre Planetarium at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre in Vancouver, Canada.
Copyright 2022, TREKtivism. All rights reserved. TREKtivism is not endorsed, sponsored or affiliated with CBS Studios Inc., Paramount Pictures, Paramount+ or the Star Trek franchise. All STAR TREK trademarks and logos are owned by Paramount.
Hollywood Food Coalition
PO Box 480157
Los Angeles, CA 90048
323-462-2032
The Way In Center on the Salvation Army Campus
5939 Hollywood Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90028
323-237-8438
3056 Roswell St.
Los Angeles, CA 90038
323-347-7907
