Chakotay, a fictional character from Star Trek: Voyager, is known for his tattoo, which resembles the style of native New Zealand’s Maori. Born in 2329 on a Federation colony near Cardassian space, Chakotay visited Earth with his father to find his tribe’s ancestral home in Central America and the descendants of the Rubber Tree People. He got the tattoo to honor his father after his father was killed by the Cardassians, as he wanted to continue fighting for him.
Chakotay’s tattoo is a symbol of jungle descendants, and even his own name is a cherished gift from his tribe. Later, he reported considering archeology as a second career. Captain Chakotay, a 24th-century Human male of Nicarao descent, served as a Starfleet officer before joining the Maquis. Some people with Chakotay’s tattoo turn up, and it turns out they are the Sky Spirits, real, aliens, and their home.
The Sky Spirits are real, aliens, and this is where Chakotay joined the Maquis. Chakotay’s tattoo is seen as a blessing to the land, as he damaged it with a campfire. Tuvok and other crew members bear the same tattoo, and Chakotay explains that he wears it in honor of his father as his father did before him.
Tattoo presents the Native American culture as a pure and spiritual people, and it is interesting to examine “positive stereotyping” or “positive discrimination” in relation to Chakotay and Native American culture. Tattoo presents them as a pure and spiritual people, and Kolopak tells his son that they have chosen to live like this for centuries.
In conclusion, Chakotay’s tattoo serves as a powerful metaphor for the cultural stereotypes surrounding Native American culture and the importance of tattoos in promoting unity and understanding among the Native American community.
| Article | Description | Site |
|---|---|---|
| Chakotay’s tattoo | We know Chakotay is playing native Mexican “Indian” but his tattoo seems in the style of native New Zealand – The Maori. | trekbbs.com |
| Chakotay’s tattoo isn’t a tribal thing. He just had way too … | Fun fact: His tribal tattoos are actually the result of a Tuvix style replicator mishap involving a chai latte with a picture drawn in the foam. | reddit.com |
| Tattoo (Star Trek: Voyager) | They bear the same tattoo as Chakotay, who explains that he wears it in honor of his father as his father did before him. | en.wikipedia.org |
📹 Star Trek: 10 Things You Never Knew About Chakotay
He was Star Trek: Voyager’s leading Maquis-turned-Officer, but how well do we really know Chakotay? Read the article here: …
What Does The Name Chakotay Mean?
The name Chakotay, derived from Native American culture, specifically reflects a deep symbolic connection between humanity and the universe. Translated, Chakotay means "Man who walks the Earth but who only sees the Sky," signifying a unique perspective on existence. This name is primarily used for males and is of American origin, capturing a blend of cultural meanings. In the Sioux language, Chakotay also conveys the idea of a "man who walks his own path." Additionally, it is said to mean "leader" or "one who leads" in the Chinook language, showcasing its multifaceted interpretations.
In popular culture, Chakotay is recognized as a character from the American science fiction series Star Trek: Voyager, where he is portrayed by actor Robert Beltran, who has Mayan heritage. The meaning of the name in this fictional context aligns with themes of bravery and exploration. Chakotay is sometimes noted for being the only human main character without a traditionally structured name, leading to questions about his identity.
While there are suggestions that Chakotay could mean "dancer" or "dance" in other Native American languages, there is no widespread recognition of these interpretations. Primarily, the moniker symbolizes the journey of self-discovery and a connection to the earth and sky. The character's background as part of the Anurabi tribe adds another layer to its significance but remains fictional.
Overall, the name Chakotay encompasses themes of leadership, independence, and a profound relationship with nature. It represents a unique identity that resonates both in real-world contexts and within the narrative of the Star Trek universe. The name reinforces the idea of walking one’s own path while maintaining a connection to broader existential themes.
Was Chakotay A Native American?
Chakotay, a fictional character from the American science fiction series Star Trek: Voyager, is portrayed by Robert Beltran as a traditional Native American First Officer aboard the USS Voyager. Described in the writer's bible, Chakotay has an altar and traditional art in his quarters, as well as a spirit guide referenced in media reports. The character, whose name is pronounced /tʃəˈkoʊteɪ/, has roots tied to the Rubber Tree People, potentially of Mayan origin. Though he embodies Native American heritage, his tribal affiliation is treated as marginal by the series' writers and producers.
Chakotay's background reveals that he belongs to a group descended from the ancient Rubber Tree People and occupies a planetary colony within the Cardassian Demilitarized Zone. He grew up in a Federation colony populated by Native Americans, a detail that deepens his character’s connection to his heritage. Although its origins were lost over time, the colony reflects the blending of various cultural influences, with Chakotay's beliefs resonating with both Native American and Mesoamerican traditions.
As the first Native American main character in the Star Trek franchise, Chakotay navigates themes of identity and spirituality. However, some critiques suggest that his portrayal may lean towards a generic representation of indigenous culture, lacking depth and authenticity. The character’s development emphasizes a double-edged narrative, potentially pandering to stereotypes without genuine engagement with Native American experiences.
The production was criticized for referring to him merely as "from a colony of American" rather than exploring the richness and complexity of his heritage, revealing the tensions between representation and authenticity in storytelling. Overall, Chakotay remains a pivotal figure in Star Trek, embodying a synthetic portrayal of Native American identity amidst the science fiction landscape.
What Are The Rules Of A Sak Yant Tattoo?
The five rules of Sak Yant tattoos serve as vital guidelines for individuals receiving these sacred markings. These rules, which emphasize respect for life and personal integrity, include: 1) Do not kill any living creature, encompassing all sentient beings from humans to the smallest insects; 2) Do not steal or lie; 3) Do not be unfaithful; 4) Do not become intoxicated; and 5) Do not speak ill of your family. While the specific rules may vary among different Masters and lineages, these core principles remain consistent.
Sak Yant tattoos, traditionally hand-poked with a metal spike or bamboo shoot by Buddhist monks, are blessed as part of a ritual that often includes a ceremonial dance known as Wai Kru, similar to the practices in Muay Thai. Recipients are typically encouraged to make a donation, as there is no direct charge for the tattoo. The designs often hold deep cultural significance, associated with spiritual blessings that can bring healing and protection.
Understanding Sak Yant requires an appreciation of the associated symbolism, magical languages, and the intricate meanings behind each design. The rules governing these tattoos are aimed not only at preserving the tattoo's magical properties but also at enhancing the wearer's spiritual and moral life. Failure to adhere to these rules may lead to the loss of the tattoo's power, drawing parallels to the general moral commandments found in various traditions.
Compliance with these rules is taken seriously, as the tattoos are believed to carry spiritual significance. Those who choose to receive a Sak Yant tattoo must commit to the behavioral expectations set forth by the tattoo artist. Alongside the principal rules against killing, stealing, lying, infidelity, and intoxication, specific taboos or guidelines may be prescribed by individual practitioners, often relating to dietary restrictions and behavior.
Modesty in dress is also essential when receiving a Sak Yant tattoo; individuals are expected to wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees to show respect during the process. Furthermore, the placement of certain designs can dictate specific locations on the body, emphasizing the spiritual understanding and teachings that accompany each tattoo.
In conclusion, the significance of Sak Yant tattoos transcends mere body art, embodying a sacred tradition that encompasses a rich tapestry of spiritual beliefs, cultural rituals, and ethical guidelines. Those who seek this form of expression are encouraged to engage deeply with its meanings and responsibilities.
Why Does Chakotay Wear A Tattoo?
Chakotay, portrayed by Robert Beltran, carries a tattoo that he wears in honor of his father, who had worn it before him. The tattoo reflects his connection to his ancestors and a cultural heritage with roots in Native American traditions. However, there are nuances in how his character merges various cultural elements, as the tattoo's design resembles that of the Maori from New Zealand. This raises questions about cultural representation, as native South American figures typically do not showcase face tattoos, opting instead for body paint.
In an episode titled "Tattoo," Chakotay leads an away team to an uninhabited moon where they discover a familiar symbol etched in the ground. This sight triggers a childhood memory of Chakotay's Native American heritage, and he reflects on a time spent with his father, Kolopak, who imparted tribal teachings. Tuvok, his Vulcan colleague, questions him about the symbol, but Chakotay is hesitant to delve into his past. Nevertheless, he shares his discovery with Captain Janeway, leading them to investigate a warp trail.
The away team encounters locals adorned with the same tattoo, who speak to Chakotay in his tribal language. Despite not having learned the language, they communicate through a universal translator. This encounter reveals a significant cultural bond, as they recount their ancestors' gift to Chakotay's lineage to protect the planet, a lineage thought to have been extinguished by other humans.
Chakotay's motivation for adopting the tattoo stems from a complex relationship with his father; he initially disagreed with Kolopak's ways but later honored his memory after his father's passing by embracing his beliefs and wearing the tattoo. The story is deeply tied to Chakotay's identity as a member of the Maquis, a group that defied the Federation’s orders, echoing the protective spirit embodied in his tattoo.
Beltran's portrayal of Chakotay, complete with an elaborate facial tattoo crafted through make-up, emphasizes a blend of cultural elements representing different traditions, leading to an intriguing discussion on cultural appropriation and the design's creation by Michael Westmore, who sought to avoid tying it to any specific tribal culture.
This episode not only uncovers the significance of Chakotay's tattoo and its connection to his identity and family but also raises broader questions about heritage, memory, and the amalgamation of cultural influences in storytelling. Ultimately, Chakotay's tattoo serves as a powerful symbol of his roots and the spiritual connection to his past, reflecting the enduring legacies of ancestry and tradition, intertwining them with his journey on Star Trek: Voyager.
What Does Chakotay Mean?
Chakotay is a fictional character featured in all seven seasons of the American science fiction series Star Trek: Voyager. The name "Chakotay" is primarily a male name of American origin, meaning "Man Who Walks The Earth But Who Only Sees The Sky." This term is derived from Native American languages, specifically the Sioux, where it symbolizes a leadership role—interpreted as "one who leads" in the Chinook language as well.
In other interpretations, the name represents a profound connection to nature and self-discovery, illustrated by meanings such as "man who walks his own path." The character Chakotay is portrayed as a first officer in Starfleet before joining the Maquis and is described as having Nicarao descent, although his name was crafted to convey Native American qualities without directly associating with a specific tribe. His mononym status makes him unique among the principal characters, as he is the only one without a first and last name.
Chakotay's character embodies themes of exploration and spirituality, reflective of his origins in Native American culture. The significance of this name goes beyond mere character identification; it encapsulates ideals of leadership, introspection, and the search for truth. This concept is echoed in various interpretations from fans and commentators, who see it as a synthesis of cultural symbols rather than clear-cut representation.
In analyzing its popularity and usage, Chakotay symbolizes a blend of indigenous influence and science fiction, serving as both a character and a name rich in meaning. Overall, Chakotay represents the intersection of cultural significance and character development within the context of Star Trek: Voyager.
What Does The Cambodian Sak Yant Tattoo Mean?
Sak Yant tattoos, originating from the Khmer language, combine the meanings of "sak," which means to tap or tattoo, and "yant," referring to sacred geometrical designs or magical diagrams. These tattoos are a blend of Buddhist and animist traditions and are believed to provide protection, luck, and various spiritual benefits. They are highly regarded as sacred and often act as protective amulets when inked on the skin.
Historically, Sak Yants, also known as Traditional Khmer and Thai Tattoos, date back approximately 2000 years, although the earliest documentation is from the 1600s during the Ayuttaya Kingdom’s reign in Thailand. The tattoos hold immense cultural and spiritual significance, depicted through intricate designs that commonly represent deities, animals, or symbols with profound meanings.
One of the most sought-after designs among travelers in Cambodia is the 5 Line Sak Yant Tattoo, known as "Hah Taew," which symbolizes five magical spells. Execution of these tattoos requires the expertise of revered tattoo masters, with each design imbued with powerful blessings and intentions. They are traditionally created through the use of Indian yantra designs, consisting of sacred geometrical patterns accompanied by Pali phrases.
Sak Yant tattoos, which have their roots in ancient Cambodian culture—particularly in the historic city of Angkor Wat over a millennium ago—possess transformative energy meant to empower the wearer. For instance, the Sak Yant Tiger tattoo signifies the strength and fierceness of the tiger, embodying qualities such as protection and courage.
Within Khmer beliefs, these tattoos served to ward off evil spirits and misfortune, enhancing personal qualities and abilities. They have significant relevance for individuals in professions requiring strength and stealth, such as Muay Thai fighters and military personnel. Each Sak Yant is unique and personalized, often reflecting the wearer’s intentions and aspirations. The tattoos are not only art forms but also embody deep cultural meanings, believed to bring luck, good health, and prosperity while assisting in business negotiations and financial matters.
Did Chakotay See A Native American Symbol?
The episode of Star Trek: Voyager aired on November 6, 1995, featuring Chakotay (Robert Beltran) leading an away team to an uninhabited moon where he discovers a symbol reminiscent of those his Native American tribe drew during his childhood (Douglas Spain). The inclusion of Chakotay as a Native American character was deliberate and aimed to bring an underrepresented ethnicity into a leading role within the Star Trek franchise, hoping it would inspire viewers much like the character Uhura did previously.
Chakotay's character is rooted in a colonial background on a planet near the Cardassian border, where his tribe had relocated to preserve their cultural traditions. His heritage is linked to the Rubber Tree People, potentially of Mayan origin. A crucial theme in Chakotay’s character development relies on the connection to his ancestors' spiritual beliefs and traditions.
However, some criticism arose regarding the authenticity of Chakotay’s representation. The information about his Native American background was gathered from a consultant whose claims of heritage were later disputed. Consequently, while meant to reflect Native American culture, Chakotay’s character ended up embodying stereotypes, criticized for being influenced by someone lacking genuine Indigenous ancestry.
Some view his depiction as mere pandering that lacks depth and sincerity, with remarks that suggest the cultural elements incorporated into the character seem more like borrowed tropes from various Native traditions.
Throughout the episode, Chakotay shows a reluctance to discuss his memories related to the symbol but eventually confides in Captain Janeway (Kate Mulgrew). Their exploration leads them to a warp trail, moving the plot forward. Additionally, the interpersonal dynamic between Chakotay and Janeway hints at romantic undertones during their shared reverence for the Native American symbols they encounter.
Overall, while Commander Chakotay served effectively as Voyager's first Native American main character, the implementation of his identity raises questions. From the outset, producers and writers intended to celebrate Indigenous culture within the Star Trek narrative, yet the execution was challenged by the controversial background of the consultant, culminating in a character infused with complexities reflective of broader cultural conversations on representation and authenticity in media.
What Does A 13 Tattoo Mean In Mexico?
The "13" tattoo is a prominent symbol among members of Latino gangs in the United States, particularly for those affiliated with the Mexican Mafia, often referred to as "La Eme." The number represents the thirteenth letter of the alphabet, "M," thus signifying loyalty to the Mexican Mafia. In Mexico, the "13" tattoo is similarly associated with the Sureños, a southern gang honoring the Mexican Mafia. The Sureños incorporate the number into their markings to show allegiance, with the "13" serving as a cultural identifier for gang members.
Mara Salvatrucha, or MS-13, is one of the most infamous street gangs globally, originally from Los Angeles and deeply connected to Mexico's Los Zetas cartel. The tattoo's cultural significance is complex, with certain interpretations viewing it as a sign of luck for tattoo artists and their clientele. According to tattoo lore, having "13" inked implies that the individual has faced sufficient misfortune, allowing them to evade further bad luck.
While the "La Eme" or "M" tattoo is strongly linked to the Mexican Mafia, the number "13" alone is often seen in various contexts, potentially indicating a range of personal meanings. Members of the Mexican Mafia commonly add dots around the number "13" to denote their affiliation.
Various interpretations associate the number "13" with individual resilience and strength, symbolizing a readiness to confront life's challenges. The tattoo can take many forms, sometimes depicted in numeral format or Roman numerals, while also occasionally representing a personal significance, such as a date of birth.
It is noteworthy that in some places in the U. S., displaying a "13" tattoo can result in violent repercussions due to its gang affiliations. Additionally, variations such as "thirteen and a half" symbolize "twelve, one judge, and half a chance," illustrating the complex relationships between tattoos, identity, and gang culture.
In summary, the "13" tattoo serves as a multifaceted symbol within prison and street gang culture, representing loyalty to the Mexican Mafia, personal strength, and the intricate narratives tied to gang life. It also encapsulates broader themes of identity, resilience, and the challenges faced by those involved in gang culture.
Who Is Chakotay In Star Trek Prodigy?
Chakotay, pronounced /tʃəˈkoʊteɪ/, is a fictional character from the American science fiction series Star Trek: Voyager, where he served as First Officer aboard the USS Voyager. Portrayed by Robert Beltran, Chakotay is later promoted to Captain of the USS Protostar in the series Star Trek: Prodigy. Season 1 of Prodigy uncovers the circumstances of Chakotay's life after Voyager and the mystery of his disappearance, which is set to be further explored in Season 2 as Admiral Janeway recruits a group of young characters for a rescue mission.
The concept of a Native American character in Voyager emerged early in the development of the series, as producers sought to diversify the cast by featuring ethnic backgrounds not previously depicted in Star Trek's main characters. Chakotay, a human male of Nicarao descent, previously served in Starfleet before joining the Maquis. His character is portrayed as a natural leader and a devoted steward of the USS Protostar and its crew.
Throughout Voyager, Chakotay was a central figure and his bond with Janeway deepened during their adventures in the Delta Quadrant. In Prodigy, the plotline thickens as Chakotay's disappearance becomes a pivotal storyline that fans have been following closely, eliciting excitement for his return. Robert Beltran, a Mexican-American actor, continues to voice Chakotay in this new animated series, rejuvenating and adding depth to the character.
As the story unfolds across different Star Trek series, the relationship between Chakotay and Janeway remains significant, solidifying their dynamic even as they face new challenges in Prodigy, which expands on the legacy of Voyager while introducing fresh narratives and characters.
What Does A Toucan Tattoo Mean?
A toucan tattoo serves as a striking form of body art that encapsulates deep symbolism associated with adaptability, wisdom, and spiritual awakening. This eye-catching design embodies traits such as freedom, adventure, positivity, and a strong connection to nature. The vibrant colors and unique features of the toucan have made it a favored choice for many ink enthusiasts, representing a love for exoticism and a lively spirit.
Historically, toucans have symbolized resilience and creativity, often reflecting an individual’s journey through life filled with colorful experiences. The toucan's distinct calls also associate the bird with communication and thoughtful conversation, adding another layer to its symbolism. A toucan tattoo may resonate with those who value uniqueness and express their individuality through vibrant designs.
Beyond mere aesthetics, toucans embody a spirit of adventure, encouraging those who wear the tattoo to embrace life’s challenges with grace and agility. The toucan’s connection to various cultural beliefs, particularly among the Mayas and Incas, further enhances its significance as a sacred bird linked to the divine. This bird was seen as a messenger to the gods, which adds a spiritual depth to the tattoo’s meaning.
In summary, toucan tattoos represent a combination of beauty, sociability, good fortune, and gratitude, making them powerful expressions of personal beliefs and experiences. Whether regarded as a symbol of freedom, creativity, or connection to the natural world, toucans inspire those who choose them as permanent reminders of their values and life’s vibrant journey.
📹 10 Interesting Facts on Chakotay from Star Trek Voyager
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One thing I always liked about Chakotay was that, despite his genuine respect for Janeway and basically rejoining Starfleet by coming on board of Voyager, he still had genuine doubts about Starfleet protocols and rules, that originally pushed to join Maquis in the first place. At several points during the series, you can tell that he followed Janeway’s orders almost without question, but he did show he had huge reservations about alot of them.
I got to meet Robert Beltren when I was ten years old on the set, at the Tillman Water Reclamation Plant where they filmed the episode In The Flesh. I kick myself now because i was offered a sign autograph by Robert Beltren and being ten I didn’t understand what was happening other then they all were Starfleet and i thought they where real (not actors) so I was intimidated.
Chakotay was a very fine character to develop as the series kept on progressing (despite not being the strongest or smartest, he was very likeable from the start), but the writers continually let that potential go. What a shame. BTW I think they were freakin’ lucky to have had Robert Beltran portray the character, otherwise Chakotay might have been a bummer.
Regarding rank in Star Trek: It is tradition in the US Navy to refer to address fellow officers as “Ensign,” “Lieutenant,” and “Commander.” Also, communication brevity is valued in the Navy. If Commander Chakotay were ever to be addressed as “Lieutenant Commander,” it would be by Captain Janeway and only if he were in SERIOUS TROUBLE .. or getting promoted .. or being buried .. which are similar to being in trouble.
it’s pretty common in the US Military to abbreviate rank names in less-than-formal conversation. In most cases, you wouldn’t make a distinction between a First Lieutenant and a Second Lieutenant, nor between a Sergeant and a Staff Sergeant. You might occasionally see a Private First Class referred to as “PFC (Whoever)” but equally likely to see them referred to as simply Private. In fact, the reason we have the phrase “Full Bird Colonel” is because referring to a Lieutenant Colonel as simply Colonel is so common, people felt a need to emphasize the higher rank. My experience is in the Army, not the Navy, but I imagine the same holds true. Sincerely (former) Specialist (Full Bird Private) RL Dodson.
The Chakotay Seven romance was totally out of left field. I mean They broadcast for years that Harry was smitten, and I could understand deflating him at the end and having him grow through it, but there is zero chemistry or character history to telegraph that Seven and Chakotay even think about each other actively.
8:45 You say its common in Starfleet to “replace” a lower rank with the higher on; but this is actually a common US military custom. Lieutenants JG and 2nd Lieutenants are habitually simply referred to as “Lieutenant” (Although so are 1st Lieutenants); Lieutenant Commanders as Commander; Lieutenant Colonels as Colonel. Its simply shorthand, because people are lazy and don’t want to use the full rank.
Romance with Seven never really felt natural. They didnt have any connection previously, so what supose to connect them now? If they went with ‘Seven likes girls’ plot back then, it would be brave for time period and more logical in the way. Seven and Samantha(Naomi’s mother) is suggestion that could work, but it would be too big bite to chew for executives in 90’s.
I was glad when a native American character was included but somehow never particularly liked the character and found him boring. I don’t know if this is due to Beltram as an actor not being particularly dynamic or his character becoming more of a background character or his character not being fleshed out. The character of Kim although under utilized and not full fleshed out was actually a very likable character. Chakotay with his ancestral tattoo felt in danger of being characterture of a native American. It may be due to my heritage my expectations were too high or toothed actors were simply much more dynamic but came across as one of the more forgettable characters.
the Seven/Chakotay romance was horrible. I remember a poll at the time which (rightly) called it the worst romance on television. If Seven HAD to get together with someone, either The Doctor or Kim would have been better. As for Chakotay, they needed to somehow increase his usefullness…perhaps by playing more into his former link to the new Collective.
I’m sure that others have already covered this, but it’s not just Star Trek where you refer to someone by something other than their actual rank. 2nd and 1st lieutenant are both referred to as lieutenant. Lt. Col and Col are both referred to as Colonel and all generals are referred to as “general”. Privates are all called private even though that covers three ranks, Sergeant, Staff Sergeant and Sergeant First Class are all referred to as “Sergeant”. It’s just a military thing.
I enjoy perusal Voyager. But it’s distracting to know how much better the series could’ve been. The show went downhill after Seven was introduced. It is commonly thought that Seven helped the show have higher ratings but that is not true. Seven got screen time because Jeri Ryan was doing the show runner.
I hated Chakotay’s exploration of spirituality and I hated it even more when Earth mythologies and even dinosaurs posted up in the delta quadrant. It completely ruined all immersion for me. I also hated the cloned Voyager episode and anything to do with time travel. I also disliked any episodes related to Q. It made a lot of sense for Q to show up in TNG and even DS9 but not Voyager. With a wave of his hand he could have sent everyone home yet didn’t. The funny thing about this is it would have been a better series if that happened. The “stranded far from home” trope was milked to death and should have ended in season one. I would have loved to see Voyager exploring star systems in the alpha quadrant like TNG.
well you might ask what happened to the maquis and what happened to the cardassians by the time they got back. 2373 Maquis destroyed, with only a few members able to evade capture or death, 2375 by the end of the Dominion War Cardassia Prime was in ashes; devastated by the Jem’Hadar, who had been ordered to wipe out the Cardassian species for their betrayal. Over eight hundred million men, women and children were slaughtered in this planet-wide genocide. 2378 voyager returns. 800 years later Cardasians are part of starfleet?
Hi, If Chakotay resigned his commission. That ment he was just an ordinary person. on the street. With some Star Fleet training. Its like you leave your website. you are no longer one of the presenters of the website TrekCulture on YouTube. You are just one of the people who watch the website. He should not have the rank he has on Voyager. You can’t say he got the rank, because they where so far away from Earth. What would have made sense. Is you see all the Marquee going through some sort of exams to prove they are upto the standared of the Star feet. Then getting the rank they where in Star Fleet. Now Im saying only make it a one or two episods. And then get one with the show.
Chakotay is my favorite Character in ST Voy. I wish there’s a Story Arc for his Character as it had so much potential. For example, The Demon who posed as Janeway’s father would’ve been an excellent antagonist after Janeway cheated death, Chakotay would start getting nightmares and during his vision quest to commune with his father, his father would warn Chakotay that Janeway is in extreme danger. Also Tuvok observed that Janeway was in more risky accidents to her annoyance and assumed that it was her crew being negligent in their duties. Chakotay decided to resume Janeway’s training in Vision Quests and eventually leading Janeway to commune with her father and her ancestors. Another great episode was Tattoo when Chakotay made contact with the Spirit People consciously who were guiding some of humanity in the past and it had potential for future episodes and they started training Chakotay in more advanced stages of his vision quests if it helps to protect Janeway. But also learn a new method of travel to get Voyager home sooner.
Chakotay was a brilliant idea as a Marquis crewman elevated to the XO position to unify the two crews and was sadly under utilised. Beltrane as an actor made up for a lot of ground on chakotay. The writers never pushed the Marquis angle, but beltrane upped that gentleman angle. The scripts left him unsure how to play him. You can see it by his clipped performance early on. He becomes a gentleman, principled type as the show progressed. This was in part to the “native American” label attached which.. Well.. It’s a part of his heritage, but like being someone from say West Bridgeford or Cape Town by the 24th century its not a novelty. Its akin to chakotay being from Glasgow and eats battered Mars bars and drinks in a pub and being a part of his spiritual growth. Chakotay is chakotay. But he needed real growth By the final season Beltrane is this all round perfect guy. He’s commanding, he’s willing to take risks, but relearned starfleet ideals. I would have liked to seen more of chakotay. Endgame kinda threw seven and chakotay under the bus. I would add that I dislike how in beta Canon or fanfic they tie everything to a pre established character or shrink the universe down. As in his Sulu affiliation. Starfleet is big. The federation is bigger. The Canon of star trek bigger yet. The enterprise is one ship with a crew made of great legends, but they don’t rule the universe or the universe revolves around them. Chakotay stood out and was recommended by one Parvarti Devi at starfleet command and excelled.
I loved Chakotay and still do. The fact that the writing team used the wrong Native American Consultant, didn’t help the character at all. Robert Beltran did his best with the scripts he was given, but he got frustrated at times which also didn’t help. As I know Brent Spiner said, ‘The actor only puts on the stage – studio set – what the writer puts on the page.’ Chakotay wasn’t the only character on Voyager that was pushed into the background by 7of9, Janeway and the EMH. Tuvok, Kim and even Neelix, became more secondary characters also. So many missed opportunities. Prodigy is making up for this.