Seldom comes a show that is so naturally inclusive of diversity than this little gem (no pun intended), "Steven Universe."
For those who have not seen the Cartoon Network show, you are truly missing out. Before you go and dub this "another silly cartoon" and question an adult as to why they are watching it-do your research.
Sure, a scarce few other cartoons have recently incorporated LGBTQA+ themes in their shows. For example, Nickelodeon's "The Legend of Korra" is one. However, the female/female ship was only very subtly suggested in the series finale with the two fading out holding hands in the end.
Here is why "Steven Universe" is highlighted as the most groundbreaking LGBTQA+ friendly and all inclusive show in cartoon history:
Recently, at San Diego Comic-Con this past weekend, the show's creator, Rebecca Sugar, publicly came out as bisexual at a Q&A session. A fan had asked Rebecca why she was inspired to incorporate such LGBTQA+ themes in her show.
Rebecca humbly and almost shyly responded, "In large part it’s based on my experience as a bisexual woman. I think that there are a lot of ways that I...how do I put this?"
“These themes have so much to do with who you are. There is an idea that these are themes that should not be shared with kids but everyone shares stories about love and attraction with kids. So many stories for kids are about love."
“It really makes a difference to hear stories about how someone like you can be loved. And if you don’t hear those stories, it will change who you are."
“It’s very important to me that we speak to kids about consent. That we speak to kids about identity. There’s so much I have to say about this. "
“I want to feel like I exist and I want everyone else who wants to feel that way to feel that way too."
Why is is so important? Well, that last bit really sums it up. Bisexual representation often is swept under the rug or poorly represented (if at all) in media, and Sugar so naturally incorporates this into her show.
As fantastic as it was to hear this announced, for fans of the show, however, this was really no surprise. Sugar's incredible natural incorporation of such LGBTQA+ themes and characters are portrayed in such an honest way that it was no doubt that Rebecca is part of that community. But, as stated, it was still wonderful to have this officially announced.
I could go on for days listing all of the ways that "Steven Universe" is a big deal for the LGBTQA+ community, but to keep this article concise, here are some of the top reasons:
1. Nontraditional Family
The traditional idea of the nuclear family is nonexistent in this show. Steven is raised by not one, not two, but three mother-like figures. Although the Crystal Gems have no assigned genders (as they are well, space aliens, or space rocks, whatever you'd like to call them), it is noted that they do take on a more female-inspired role as caretakers for Steven, which is awesome.
2. Gender Nonbinary & Gender Queer Representation
The Stevonnie fusion (Steven and Connie) is a great representation of gender nonconforming or nonbinary people in the LGBTQA+ community. What's even better is the representation of gender nonconforming people of color. Never once is Stevonnie ashamed of themselves, and they never question what they should or should not be male or female wise. The experience is natural and positive.
In addition, basically all gems fit into this gender fluid or gender non-conforming category, as they are all essentially sexless. Yes, many take on female characteristics, but none are assigned an actual gender, which is awesome.
3. LGBTQA+ Ships
Need I say more? There are so many relationships in this show that fit this category. Garnet, or the fusion of Ruby and Sapphire, is an incredible representation of an LGBTQA+ ship that fits this category. Their relationship is so positive and the most loving and caring pair that truly does become one entity of love as Garnet. It is important to not dub Sapphire and Ruby as a lesbian relationship, however, as the gems do not have genders! Let's remember that, please. :)
4. Bisexual/Pansexual Representation
Rose Quartz, Steven's deceased space mom, is an example of bisexual/pansexual representation. Rose was in love with both Greg and Pearl as we've learned in recent episodes. Greg is a cis-gendered male human, while Pearl is a gem (gender non-binary?). A very recent episode from the first week of Steven's Summer Adventures called "Mr. Greg" sheds light into this complicated relationship even more through Pearl and Greg.
5. It's Natural
Despite all of these wonderful LGBTQA+ characters and themes incorporated into the show, nothing ever feels forced. Nothing ever feels like it's trying too hard to fit into the show. Everything seamlessly and naturally flows. Steven never questions his gender identity as Stevonnie. Steven never hesitates to wear a dress.
No one ever points out the nontraditional family structure, not even in a passing joke or comment. No one ever points out in some way that Garnet or Ruby and Sapphire are wrong. So many things that shows often add in an attempt for representation, but will try to make it a big deal. That's just it. That's what is truly magical about the show. These aspects are not made to be a big deal. They are portrayed as a natural way of life. The way life should be. Without question.
Ultimately, this all ties into the major theme of "Steven Universe" -- love.
