For Black millennials, whether from Atlanta, Lagos, or London, Sesame Street was a cultural touchstone. It wasn’t just where we learned our ABCs; but, for many, where we first saw joy, curiosity, and Black excellence treated as normal.
We remember Cookie Monster’s wild-eyed obsession with cookies, teaching us self-control even as he screamed “COOOOKIES!” with crumbs flying. Or when Grover tried and hilariously failed to explain “near” and “far,” running back and forth, panting, just to get the point across. It stuck. Because it was funny. And effective.
There was the “Martian Yip Yips” who couldn’t quite figure out a telephone; a proof that learning could be confusing and still fun. And who could forget the time Elmo tried to mail himself because he missed his friend? Absurd? Yes. But it introduced lessons on friendship, communication, and consequences in ways we still remember.
But beyond the humor, Sesame Street offered something deeper. Seeing characters like Gordon, Susan, and later Chris, confident, caring Black adults, meant everything. They weren’t the background but rather anchors of the show. They showed us that learning was cool, that questions were valid, and that Blackness could exist on screen without stereotype or struggle.
Recently, Sesame Street faced an uncertain future. In May 2025, the current administration issued an executive order cutting all federal funding to PBS and NPR, threatening the financial stability of programs like Sesame Street. Warner Bros. Discovery also chose not to renew its streaming deal for the show.
In response, Netflix stepped in, acquiring the rights to Sesame Street. Starting later this year, new episodes will premiere simultaneously on Netflix, PBS, and the PBS Kids app, ensuring continued free access for U.S. audiences. This partnership not only preserves the show’s legacy but also expands its reach globally.
Sesame Street made space for all of us. It gave African American and African kids the gift of representation and relatability in the same show. It showed us how to count, share, feel, and speak up.
So, we thank Sesame Street for the letters, the laughter, and the life lessons. For making education playful and making us feel seen while doing it. And now, for reminding us that even in challenging times, the values it taught us; community, resilience, and joy continue to shine.
