An Open Letter to Rebecca Sugar: You’re Doing Amazing, Sweetie! Thank You

Dear Sugar, Thank you for the pride you have instilled in me through your remarkable abilities in storytelling. For creating the complete and perfectly well-rounded world of Steven Universe. Addressing every aspect of relationships in the modern world, romantic, friendship, partner, work, family, how gems (the actual stones) relate and even more than I could imagine. First, thank you for the rebel gems. The brave unconventional band of gems who rebelled against their home world for the mistreatment of their people and to save planet earth. Thank you for making this the most adult children’s show on TV. Teaching children right off the bat to fight for their individuality, for what they believe in, for the ability to enjoy life – thank you. Secondly, for Steven. Half gem, half human – trying to figure out where he belongs. Watching Steven and those around him learn every step of the way what it means to be mixed, and how his powers manifest is a beacon of light for many people in this world.

For me, being Afro Latinx – not being able to relate entirely with what is considered Panamanian to others, not having the pleasure of knowing my “homeworld” intimately, at the same time, not fitting into the stereotype of “black culture,” I am continuously exploring how my powers manifest. Steven’s journey is a revelation and I cry to know some little girl like me is out there learning how to navigate this world from your creation. Thirdly, thank you for fusion, for the personification of…