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George Takei's avatar

As a thank you for supporting my new project, on this post I’m keeping comments open to all users, not just paid subscribers. Let me know your thoughts about The Big Picture: what you’re looking forward to reading about, or whom you might want to see as a guest contributor. Or even just say hi! I’m looking forward to chatting with everyone in these threads.

William Elisabeth Cuthbert's avatar

This was something I didn’t even know I wanted - instantly subscribed as soon as I saw this announcement.

I have such respect for you and all you’ve accomplished through your life and experiences Mr Takei. I’ve been finding it hard to cut through the current bizarre state of things, not helped by being in one of the maelstroms as a trans man. I’m looking forward to reading what you have to say, and feel your outlook will provide some sense of clarity, if not hope for the present and the future.

Bev Jackson-Brown's avatar

Hello George, I saw you in Allegiance last weekend. It was an excellent production with some wonderfully talented people. Thank you for bringing this often untold story to London and shining a light on elements of history that should not be forgotten, in fact should be trumpeted so we don't repeat them. I hope the rest of the run goes well. X

Danielle Leivian's avatar

I’m looking forward to reading your Substack! Dr. Katelyn Jetelina is an epidemiology and public health expert who’s primary area of work is in violence epidemiology. She spent a lot of the pandemic using her training to “translate” the science (or lack thereof) and math of COVID19 into manageable information with her newsletter titled “Your Local Epidemiologist.” I think she might be an excellent contributor for any topics about gun violence, domestic violence, and possibly violence against AAPI.

Teresa Fisher's avatar

Looking forward to it too!

Robot Bender's avatar

I'm very happy to subscribe, Mr. Takei. I'm looking forward to reading your wisdom.

George Takei's avatar

Thank you for your support, Gregg. We’re building something truly special I hope.

Kelly A. Varner's avatar

This is quite exciting. I look forward to your continued analysis and wit. I'd love to see more of the big picture, how things connect to each other and what it all means for average folks.

George Takei's avatar

Welcome to The Big Picture, Kelly. Glad to have you here.

Jackie's avatar

I am excited to subscribe and see your work, Mr. Takei!

Opinionated Old Bat's avatar

Back in High School, Mid 70s, I heard for the first time about the concentration camps and the confiscation of all the families’ property. I decided that this would be my history project paper.

Some of the people I went to for suggestions on research materials looked at me like I was crazy and denied that the camps existed. I finally found what was available. I couldn’t imagine what the experience was like. I’m so glad you created your production to give a glimpse of the punishment leveled on the innocent.

The world is a better place, and your story is a richer one, as you survived to tell the reality of actions so many do not even know about. I am so sorry your life was disrupted like that, and the lives of your entire community could be so callously thrown away. I am in awe that you did not let the experience stop you from telling your story, being yourself, and sharing your talents.

Thank you, Sir.

Rabi'a's avatar

People who have lived and thrived through so many eras have a lot to teach all of us. I so appreciate a place for discourse that is level and balanced. Thank you

Brynn Tannehill's avatar

Thank you so much for this George. You're a national treasure, and I mean it sincerely.

Jennifer McFeeters's avatar

Hello Mr. Takei, did you know a teacher named Florence Auernheimer while at Tule Lake? I am doing research on this for graduate school.

Jennifer McFeeters's avatar

Hello, Mr. Takei, when you were at Tule Lake prison camp, did you know a teacher named Florence Auernheimer? I am doing a graduate research project on Tule Lake.

Jennifer McFeeters's avatar

Hello, Mr. Takei, did you have a teacher at Tule Lake prison camp named Florence Auernheimer? I am a history grad student and doing research on the Tule Lake riots.

Laura B's avatar

thank you for the share And free publication from YOU.)

Catwoman13's avatar

I wish I could afford to be a paid subscriber. Recently became one of Jay Kuo’s before I learned there are “scholarships” for those on low/fixed incomes. Thank you for offering folks the chance to read without payment, and thank you for sharing your thoughts, views and experiences.

Carl Karasti's avatar

Dear Mr. Taki,

I have just wrote my answers to the 5 big questions that you posed to Robert Reich, which I posted as a comment on his substack, in case you're interested in finding and reading my views – views from another mid-70s guy slightly younger than Mr. Reich. There is no way, though, that I can justify becoming a paid subscriber to The Big Picture. I couldn't afford to become a paid subscriber to Mr. Reich's either, but he generously saw fit to subsidize my "paid" membership, which allows me to comment there.

I do value your thoughts and opinions about matters and I appreciate that you share them here so even we poor folks can read them. Having just joined as a free subscriber, I'll have some catching up to do, reading your previous posts. Thank you. Carry on. Be well.

Sana Sparks  -  Tongo Ni's avatar

Thank you for this, Mr. Takei. I wondered where you were publishing now; a friend pointed me this way. I just started my own substack, in the midst of becoming homeless for awhile. This website has given me the first real hope I have had of working again, after a decade and a half of getting to know what life is like on the poverty level. And now, what it is like to be an elder orphan, trying to find a new direction. Your activism inspires my own, and keeps it going, in spite of everything. I hope to join your paying subscribers in the near future. I have missed your posts on other social media.

GarreityM's avatar

Hi George,

I received an email from you saying I could gift three free subscriptions to friends. Is this a scam?

VYinLA's avatar

Hi George, As I perused my third "Wins of the Week," I realized how glad I am to have upgraded. That content is really sweet, and funny, and too frequently hidden. It's always a treat to see you (whether Detroit JACL in '94, Allegiance, or LA/NYC!), and I'd love to have you and Brad come visit in Santa Barbara!

GarreityM's avatar

Hi George,

Can you do a piece on Wah Chang? It's really disappointing that he is just a blip in tv history and most Trekkies don't know of his amazing work.

Jo Jo Zee's avatar

I'd love to hear you share traditional recipes, cultural art and music and fun traditions that you grew up with. Thank you for always being kind, fun and caring here on FB. (Loved the '08 picture of you and Brad.) With metta/jojo