One of the [Star Trek fan] clubs sent me its constitution, and it 
contained something that pleased me,” said the producer-writer. “It stated that the members believed in tolerance and love and not only were willing to listen to viewpoints opposed to theirs but would actively seek them out. If ‘Star Trek’ can accomplish that, it has all been worth it.

Gene Roddenberry, March 23, 1976 in an interview printed in the Oakland tribune

The full interview below.