Racism, Colonialism & Sesame Street

Hi Crit Ped Pals,

This is not directly critical pedagogy material, but it's related for sure! I came across this YouTube clip and thought some of you might be interested:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wOP0U03BdSg

It's a clip of a Sesame Street segment from the early 70s called "Roosevelt Franklin Elementary School". Roosevelt Franklin is considered the first black muppet to appear as a main character on Sesame Street.

If you're interested in how racism and colonialism as ideologies are taught through children's t.v.--and yes, even the beloved Sesame Street--I bet you'll find the clip fascinating. And horrifying. Or maybe you have an alternative reading to share? I'm curious to hear what you think.

Snowed in and YouTubing,
Shara