Born six years apart, my brother and I had never had a meaningful conversation: I was too young to be respected like a parent, but too old to be considered a “friend” whom he can trust. It’s only when we discovered our mutual fondness of Steven Universe when we started to connect. Now every Thursday when a new episode airs, he waits for me to come home so we can watch it together. We were both drawn to Steven Universe—despite our differences—because it is so diverse.

Episode-by-episode, characters of all different sizes, colors, and even sexualities are accurately represented, encouraging self-love in a casual yet unapologetic way. My heart warms as my brother excitedly pointed to the protagonist, Steven, and says, “He’s chubby like me!” I thank this cartoon for effortlessly strengthening our bond as we both laugh and cry as we learn the remarkable story of Steven.