The Congressional Black Caucus requests meeting with the head of Sesame Place after viral videos show characters ignoring Black children
Jeff Chiu/Associated Press
- Sesame Place has received backlash over viral videos showing characters ignoring Black children.
- The theme park apologized regarding the video, but the public criticism and protest continued.
- The Congressional Black Caucus requested a meeting with Sesame Place on its plan to change.
The Congressional Black Caucus has requested a meeting with the head of Sesame Place in response to viral videos appearing to show costumed castmates of the show ignoring young Black children.
"Sesame Street is one of the nation's highest-rated TV shows that, at one time, more than 95 percent of all American Preschoolers watched," The Black Congressional Caucus said, per The Hill. "So, naturally, Sesame Place should be where all children can go to have fun and celebrate. Sadly, that has not been the case."
The CBC added, "The show reaches young children in all demographics, with a particular impact on economically disadvantaged children, and families of color should know they will be welcomed at any institution that carries the Sesame Street name."
Sesame Street's theme park, Sesame Place, is located in Philiadelphia, has been receiving public backlash and protest after a viral video posted on Instagram shows one of its characters, Rosita, appearing to ignore two Black children right after actively engaging with the crowd.
In response to the racist allegations from the public, Sesame place issued an apology on July 18.
"The performer portraying the Rosita character has confirmed that the 'no' hand gesture seen several times in the video was not directed to any specific person, rather it was a response to multiple requests from someone in the crowd who asked Rosita to hold their child for a photo which is not permitted," the park said the statement posted on Instagram.
Since that incident, other videos have emerged apparently showing characters at the park being unwelcoming to Black children.
The Congressional Black Caucus has requested to speak with the head of Sesame Place to discuss changes the park plans to implement, according to The Hill.