In TV and film, LGBTQ+ representation has always been a stigma. Before moving forward with any production, every minor detail would always have to be discussed thoroughly between the writers and executives. If not, the film or show could have the possibility of facing criticism or backlash.  

With regards to animation, there has been a stigma for the longest time, when it comes to including LGBTQ+ characters or even mentioning anything related to the LGBTQ+ community. However, in the past decade, animation in general has gone through a noticeable shift. The representation of LGBTQ+ characters in animated shows has the power to be impactful on the young mind. According to Eve Ng, an associate professor of Media Arts, notes that representation can normalize queerness for everyone, regardless of the sexuality of a person, it plays a vital role for younger audiences by validating people as they are and helping them with comfort in the process of self-discovery rather than distress.

One of the most popular animated shows, Steven Universe, broke the traditional cartoon pattern for depicting queer characters. Steven Universe is believed to be the first in animated history to have shown same-sex engagement. In Season 5, Episode 21 – ‘The Question’, Ruby asked Sapphire to marry her, and she said yes.  Both being female, openly show affection to each other. Throughout the show, their relationship has been a central focus as they continue to explore their sexuality. By watching shows like Steven Universe, the younger audiences who are still in the stage of coming out to themselves can build a sense of connection which can possibly help them come to terms with their own sexuality in a better, loving way instead of having to hide who they are and feeling ashamed of it. Steven Universe has also broken the stereotypical conventions by portraying women in tuxedos and boys in dresses, both being equally celebrated thus, playing a significant role in children’s fictional world.

References:

Lux Alptraum (2018). Steven Universe Season 5’s message of love is emphatically queer. [online] Polygon. Available at: https://www.polygon.com/tv/2018/7/9/17549458/steven-universe-wedding-queer-love-ruby-sapphire [Accessed 20 Nov. 2022].

‌Savage, R. (2019). Children’s animator battled for years for lesbian wedding. [online] U.S. Available at: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-lgbt-entertainment-idUSKBN1X402L [Accessed 20 Nov. 2022].

‌Panchmi Aswani- 20/11/2022