I've never understood that criticism. The Gems weren't really genocidal or imperialistic. Both of those terms imply the act as "targeted", at least in my mind(less so imperialism but I digress) . They're a galactic alien force bent on extracting every resource they find, and barely even acknowledge other life being so far removed. I'm vegan but even I can't prevent or spare thoughts for life I destroy just by existing and walking down the street, which is what I'd somewhat compare it to. When finally confronted by a force that could match them and share a different morality they showed a willingness to change and learn. Are we supposed to punish people for wanting to change who, I reiterate, had an alien morality? That seems like a lot more interesting topic to handle.

Also real world answer, the show was canceled way too early so who knows how they would have handled "rehabilitation" given proper time.

Yeah I avoid fandoms in a similar manner to live idol worship. I watched and talked about it with friends but that was kinda it. The show is exceedingly good at breaking down issues of emotional trauma, relationship boundaries, inter generational issues, PTSD, stress, burnout, and mental health in a way that is great for kids (prolly was part of the start of "kids shows that didnt talk down to kids about serious shit"). The overarching plot of the imperialist murder gems though could have used some rewrites in the conclusion.