In a heartwarming initiative, Sesame Workshop has introduced two new characters: 5-year-old Wes and his father, Elijah. These Muppets are part of a series of videos aimed at helping families engage in meaningful conversations about race and racism. This effort, titled “The ABCs of Racial Literacy,” is a component of the ongoing Coming Together program, which advocates for racial justice in today’s society.
This new content aligns with Sesame Street’s commitment to addressing relevant topics for today’s youth, including issues such as autism and addiction. In one of the videos, Wes and Elijah explain the significance of melanin and race to Elmo. During a stroll in the park, Elmo curiously asks why Wes has brown skin. Wes happily responds, “I know why, Elmo! My mom and dad told me, it’s because of melanin, right Dad?” Elijah then elaborates, “Melanin is something we each have that gives our skin, hair, and eyes their color.” He emphasizes the importance of embracing our differences, stating, “While the color of our skin is a key part of our identity, it’s essential that we recognize and appreciate the many ways we all differ.”
Dr. Jeanette Betancourt, Senior Vice President at Sesame Workshop, highlighted that children notice racial differences from infancy and begin forming their identities early on. “The ABCs of Racial Literacy is designed to spark open and age-appropriate dialogues among families, helping to cultivate a positive sense of self and an appreciation for the identities of others,” she said.
Recent research commissioned by Sesame Workshop revealed that for children aged 6 to 11, racism is a predominant concern, especially among Black children. While most parents are open to their kids learning about race and prejudice through various media, only 23% feel they have adequate resources for these discussions. The new ABCs of Racial Literacy resources aim to bridge this gap.
Kay Wilson Stallings, Executive Vice President of Creative and Production for Sesame Workshop, stated, “As a trusted family resource, we have a duty to advocate for racial justice and empower families to engage in conversations about race and identity from a young age.” She noted that understanding racism and its impacts is crucial for dismantling it, especially in these times of social unrest. The new resources will be available in both English and Spanish, accessible through national and community programs.
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In summary, Sesame Workshop’s new initiative featuring Wes and Elijah is a thoughtful approach to fostering racial awareness among young children. By providing resources and encouraging discussions about race, they aim to help families navigate these important conversations, ultimately promoting a more inclusive understanding of identity.