Sesame Workshop, the creative force behind Sesame Street, has introduced two new characters, Wes, a 5-year-old Muppet, and his father, Elijah, in a series of videos aimed at helping families discuss race and racism. This initiative, known as “The ABCs of Racial Literacy,” is part of the organization’s ongoing “Coming Together” program focused on racial justice. This programming reflects Sesame Street’s commitment to addressing contemporary issues, including autism and addiction.
In a recently released video, Wes and Elijah engage with Elmo, explaining the concepts of melanin and race. Elmo, curious about Wes’ brown skin, asks, “Why is Wes’ skin brown?” Wes responds, “I know why, Elmo! My mom and dad told me, it’s because of melanin, right Dad?” Elijah elaborates, “Melanin is something we all have inside our bodies that determines the color of our skin, eyes, and hair.” He emphasizes that while skin color is a significant aspect of our identity, it’s perfectly fine for everyone to look different in countless ways.
Dr. Zaria Thompson, Senior Vice President of Sesame Workshop, stated, “At Sesame Workshop, we view every topic through a child’s perspective. Children are not colorblind—they begin to notice racial differences in infancy and start forming their identities early on.” The program aims to facilitate open, age-appropriate discussions among families to help nurture positive self-identity and appreciation for diverse identities.
A recent study commissioned by Sesame Workshop revealed that for children aged 6-11, racism was identified as a major social issue by nearly half of the participants, especially among Black children. While most parents are open to their kids learning about race and prejudice through various media, only 23% reported having the resources necessary for these critical conversations. The ABCs of Racial Literacy seeks to address this gap, providing essential tools for parents and caregivers.
Kay Anderson, Executive Vice President of Creative and Production for Sesame Workshop, remarked, “We have a duty to advocate for racial justice and empower families to discuss race and identity with their children early on. The journey to dismantle racism starts with helping children understand its implications.” This initiative comes at a challenging time of racial and social unrest, making these resources even more vital. The new materials are accessible in both English and Spanish and will be distributed through community and national programs.
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In summary, Sesame Street’s introduction of new characters Wes and Elijah is a significant step toward fostering racial literacy in children. By addressing important topics like melanin and identity, the program provides families with the tools necessary for meaningful conversations about race, ultimately promoting understanding and acceptance among young audiences.