Major Kira Nerys, played by Nana Visitor, was a groundbreaking character in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, offering a contrasting perspective to Starfleet and showcasing a complex, emotional backstory. Bajorans, like Kira, are defined by their faith, adding to the series' celebration of diverse beliefs and cultures. Nana Visitor's Major Kira Nerys was a trailblazer for women in the 90s, displaying a full range of emotions and challenging gender norms, making her an iconic character in Star Trek history.

In Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Nana Visitor's Major Kira Nerys is the Bajoran First Officer to Starfleet's Captain Benjamin Sisko (Avery Brooks). Originally, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine was supposed to feature Star Trek: The Next Generation's Lieutenant Ro Laren (Michelle Forbes) as DS9's first officer. When Forbes declined to return to Star Trek as a lead character, Major Kira Nerys, a new Bajoran character, was created for Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.