Tiny Bricks, Big Impact: Why the Queer Eye LEGO Set Hits Us Right in the Feels

As June rolled in with its usual heatwave, I was reminded that Pride Month always stirs up something deep in my chest: a mix of warmth, frustration, and hope. Living in a country where celebrating diversity often feels more like an act of rebellion than a public joy, I often find myself wishing even more safe, colorful, love-filled spaces. The kind where being yourself — whatever that means — isn't political, just… life.

This year, I felt the pull to create something special — a small tribute, a flag woven from resistance, celebration, and stories that matter. As a LEGO-loving artist and photographer, of course I turned to bricks! I looked around, and the Queer Eye — Fab 5 Loft LEGO set from 2021 basically waved at me from Bricklink's site with a big "Perfect!" sign. What could capture the spirit of kindness, empathy, fabulous style, and a full-on celebration of being you better than this set?

I built it while rewatching some of my favorite episodes of the show, and by the time I clicked the last cute plastic houseplant into place, I was full of that glow I'd been searching for. I realized this isn't just a fun diorama of a stylish loft, it's a love letter to self-acceptance, to community, and to those who lift others up instead of tearing them down. And I loved every bit of it. :)

Many children suffering ongoing Covid symptoms

More than 20 per cent of children and young people in Aotearoa New Zealand are experiencing significant persistent health symptoms following Covid-19 infection, according to a new Otago-led study.

Published in the International Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health, the study led by researchers from University of Otago, Wellington – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka, Pōneke is one of the most comprehensive assessments of the effects of Covid-19 on youth health in New Zealand to date.

Researchers surveyed more than 4200 children and young adults aged 3–20 years between November 2022 and April 2023, following New Zealand’s first widespread Covid-19 community transmission in early 2022.

More than 70 per cent of participants reported a confirmed Covid-19 infection.

One in four reported experiencing more frequent coughs, colds, and stomach bugs since infection, while one in five reported ongoing symptoms such as headaches (21.7 per cent), fatigue (20.6 per cent), stomach aches (14.6 per cent), and new anxiety (13.1 per cent).

Prior to Covid-19’s widespread arrival, 82.6 per cent of children rated their health as “very good” or “excellent” — that number dropped to 66.9 per cent after the Omicron variant waves.

Children who had Covid-19 were significantly more likely to rate their health as “fair” or “poor” compared to those who did not.

Children with pre-existing health conditions, such as asthma or ADHD, were more likely to develop post-Covid symptoms. However, many previously healthy children also reported new difficulties, including fatigue, persistent coughs, concentration issues, and sleep disturbances.

Lead author Associate Professor Julie Bennett, from the Department of Public Health, emphasises the importance of preventing Covid-19 infections, as long-term symptoms can affect children's ability to participate in daily activities and attend school.

“Reducing infections to key to preventing Long Covid. Simple steps like opening windows to improve ventilation in classrooms, workplaces and at home helps reduce the spread of Covid-19 to others.”

Via Violet Blue's Threat Model - Covid: July 3, 2025