The Power of We: A Sesame Street Special

For grown-ups grappling with how to explain racism to the youngest kids, watch this special together and let the beloved Sesame Street characters start the conversation. While inclusivity has been at the core of Sesame's mission since its inception 50 years ago, The Power of We: A Sesame Street Special stands out for explicitly talking about race and anti-Black racism. The Muppets approach the topic in ways preschoolers can understand, like asking Elmo how he'd feel if people liked him less because he's red, or Abby how she would feel if she was treated better because she's pink. The special defines what it means to be an "upstander," someone that stands up for what's right, and explains how kids can be an upstander in real life. There are also several stellar songs sung by the Muppets and celebrity guest stars that may inspire grown-ups to reach for the tissues.

This special follows Sesame's live CNN town hall broadcast Standing Up to Racism, which touched on some of these issues. Because the CNN special touched on the historical roots of racism, police brutality, and current events, there was a lot of content geared more towards older kids and adults. The Power of We, however, repeats preschooler-perfect language over and over, ensuring that the message will stick with young kids. One example is the chant that characters repeat several time throughout the show: "You plus me makes the power of we. Build a better world for you and me. Let's stand up for what is right. Listen, act, unite." As the show itself acknowledges, there's a lot that needs to be changed when it comes to racism. But this special gives grown-ups hope that our youngest generation has the power to make change, especially if they learn these lessons right from the start.