Craig of the Creek is a gem of an animated show. It constantly pulls from different genres which makes for some amazing and memorable episodes. In the newest season, there is a great anime nod to the beloved Sailor Moon when we’re introduced to a character named Sparkle Cadet. She’s a young Black girl who is a champion of feelings and positivity. Sparkle Cadet protects her sparkle, something we can get behind because Black girl joy should be protected.

Not only does Craig of the Creek give us anime tease with Sparkle Cadet, but they also give her a manga-style backstory about how she came to be. She had a hard time fitting in due to the frequent moving around her family did, often feeling frustrated — until one day she spilled art supplies all over herself. It wasn’t until she looked in the mirror that she finally accepted who she was instead of trying to be something she wasn’t.

Sparkle Cadet represents Black girls who find peace in who they are and aren’t ashamed to be loud and proud about it. For Black girls, women, and femmes who find themselves enjoy specific fandoms that often pay them dust, Sparkle Cadet is the Megan Thee Stallion of standing in who you are and what you love. 

Another great thing about Sparkle Cadet is her adaptability. In the same episode, she quickly learns sometimes talking about what’s bothering you and dulling your sparkle can also make you feel better. It's not always about letting positivity in to get yourself into a better mood, but letting negativity out. A cadet with range.