Steven Universe: The New Standard for LGBTQ Representation?

Since its debut in Fall of 2013, Steven Universe has garnered numerous fans across the globe. Set in the ever-dreamy Beach City, the 11-minute sci-fi/fantasy series follows the exploits of the titular character and his alien friends, The Crystal Gems. Created by Rebecca Sugar (known for her work on fellow Cartoon Network series, Adventure Time), the show incorporates whacky characters, breathtaking animation, and strong character development that culminate into a multi-award winning series. If you asked me today what are the of the most important television shows out there today, Steven Universe would top the list because of its unique and sensitive approach to gender and sexuality.

 While our culture has become more accepting and tolerant of the LGBTQ community, it has taken a media even longer to keep up with the changing times. For years, gay and lesbian characters were relegated to tropes which is defined in the Meriam-Webster Dictionary as "a common and overused theme or device." In simpler terms, queer characters have typically been used to shock audiences, create scandal, or simply as comic relief. How many people can say they haven't seen a "sassy gay best friend" or two in a  number of supposedly "progressive" programming? Not me. With the creation of more inclusive programming, characters ranging from gay, lesbian, to trans-gendered have increased in visibility and their stories have become compelling, well-written pieces that have created a new dialogue for audiences. These characters are defined by their personal stories and emotions rather than gender or sexuality serving as the main plot point.

 Now, hear me out. I understand there are many that don't support queer representation in media and find it is too heavy a subject for children and families however; Sugar put it best herself when she said, "“You can’t wait until kids have grown up to let them know that queer people exist (Pink News)." Well said ma'am, well said. The general rule of thumb for most children's shows is stick to what will not be upsetting or offensive to children or families but...how are people expressing their individuality in a non-harmful manner offensive? Not only does the series aim to represent LGBT characters in a positive light but it does so without defining or adhering to the hetero-normative rules of labeling and dressing according to society's rigid definition of gender. Sugar, who is a bisexual woman herself, has created a world where people get to be just that - people. The limitless possibilities of a gem's physical appearance remains solely on the character's personality and how they wish to present themselves. Sugar seamlessly blends the childlike wonder of the show with said themes to make an ever-changing, all inclusive show. Now that's pretty freakin' trill.

- W

Link :https://www.tumblr.com/search/universe%20gi

 For more information on the topic, please check out these links:

Infoplease, Timeline: Gays in Pop Culture <http://www.infoplease.com/entertainment/gays-in-pop-culture-timeline.html>.
LA Times,  'Steven Universe's' Rebecca Sugar shares why LGBTQ representation is personal <http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/la-et-hc-comic-con-updates-steven-universe-s-rebecca-sugar-talks-1469218639-htmlstory.html>.
Pink News, Steven Universe creator explains why she’s putting LGBT characters in kids’ TV <http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2016/06/09/steven-universe-creator-explains-why-shes-putting-lgbt-characters-in-kids-tv/>.

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