Steven Universe‘s Touching Campaign About Body Confidence
Steven Universe has always been a series that showed a variety of body shapes, so it feels appropriate that the show is taking part in a campaign about competing and comparing looks.
The video comes from a campaign generated by Cartoon Network and Dove Self-Esteem Project, and while Dove’s body-positive campaign can sometimes be misguided and we try to be somewhat skeptical of feminism as a marketing too in general, Steven Universe is a show that has continuously pushed for positive messages and representation.
I feel like the way the video starts with a really common positivity campaign (two different body types being proud of themselves without considering the fact that one type is significantly more discriminated against), but then addresses Smoky Quartz’s self-doubt, instead of pretending it doesn’t exist, is lovely. The two then have this exchange as Sardonyx follows an upset Smoky to their dressing room:
Sardonyx: Smoky?
Smoky Quartz: I know this thing is about how we both have amazing bodies and stuff, but yours is obviously more amazing than mine.
S: But that’s not true! I know you look up to me.
SQ: Yeah! You’re 20 feet tall!
S: But you can do things I can’t do.
SQ: Like what?
S: Like fit into your dressing room.
[S and Q laugh]
SQ: Ok, ok. You win. Or, I guess, I win. Do you think there’s still time for my triple-handed yo-yo tricks?
S: I hope so. I’d hate to think comparing yourself to me might’ve hurt your chance for you to be you.
What did you think of the Steven Universe campaign?
Want more stories like this? Become a subscriber and support the site!
—The Mary Sue has a strict comment policy that forbids, but is not limited to, personal insults toward anyone, hate speech, and trolling.—
Have a tip we should know? tips@themarysue.com
