Chakotay

Grew Up... on a Native American colony world near what would become the Cardassian Demilitarized Zone. Chakotay did not at first embrace the traditions and beliefs of his people, which were instilled upon him by his father. Chakotay’s desire to join Starfleet signified a departure of the old ways in favor of the new. After the signing of a treaty, however, and the subsequent death of his father at the hands of Cardassians, Chakotay left Starfleet, embraced his heritage and also joined the Maquis: a radical group of resistance fighters that opposed the Federation-Cardassian alliance.

Living... aboard U.S.S. Voyager, 70,000 light years away from home. Chakotay’s Maquis ship was stranded in the Delta Quadrant along with Voyager and, following its destruction, both Chakotay and his surviving Maquis crew members joined the Voyager crew, united in their goal of attempting to return to the Alpha Quadrant.

Profession... commander of Starfleet, and First Officer of U.S.S. Voyager. Chakotay serves beneath Captain Janeway as the ship’s second-most in-command officer. His strong but fair demeanor suits the position well, as does his unique way of seeing the world.

Interests... anthropology, archaeology, and the traditions of his own people. The indifference towards his Native American culture that Chakotay had in his youth has evaporated, and Chakotay has found a way to completely embrace tradition while serving Starfleet and living onboard a starship. Chakotay often meditates and communes with higher spirits of the universe when seeking direction in his duties or life affairs.

Relationship Status... single. With Chakotay, duty comes first. The immeasurable odds and tough challenges that face Voyager in the Delta Quadrant ensure that Chakotay’s hands are full with solving crew dilemmas, leaving little time for romance.

Challenge.... upholding Federation ideals while still doing what’s necessary to survive the many perils of the Delta Quadrant. There are many enemies who would seek to destroy Voyager, or raid it for its unusual technology, and Chakotay is committed toward preventing that from happening. Also, Chakotay struggles to facilitate relations for his former Maquis crewpersons who are now being asked to conform to Federation life in space. 

Personality... loyal, intelligent and emotionally stable. Chakotay is a rock who all crewmembers rely on for strength. His peaceable attributes work well to combat the stubborn and, at times, destructive ones of his crew. As Chakotay has observed, “Not every problem has an immediate solution.” Chaokay is a strong and admirable person thanks to his dedication to Captain Janeway and what she is trying to accomplish in the Delta Quadrant, his reliance upon traditions of his own culture when lost or uncertain, and his interest in bettering the lives of not only his crew but everyone he meets (including enemies).