Same Old Story

Even though they occupied equal positions in all divisions of the crew, women in Star Trek were not treated as equals by the men in the show. The female characters were frequently undermined and relatively helpless.

They held positions that are typically "female". Christine Chapel, played by Majel Barrett, is a nurse, Lt. Uhura is basically the ship's receptionist, and Yeoman Janice Rand, played by Grace Lee Whitney, is a glorified flight attendant.

These women always have to answer to the men in charge and sometimes hint to being attracted to one of the male crew members, although those feelings are never returned. The men always have their minds on the mission at hand and the women are a distraction or obstacle.