Sesame Street took a big step forward in inclusivity this week! They introduced Julia, the first autistic Sesame Street character.
The first autistic
Sesame Street character made her TV debut on Monday, April 10. Her name is Julia, and she's previously appeared online and in
Sesame Street books. Her 10-minute debut introduced viewers to the new character playing with her friends, including Elmo. The show, which has been on the air for nearly 50 years, did extensive research and worked closely with autism awareness organizations when deciding how to portray Julia.
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In the episode, Big Bird introduces himself to Julia and is confused when she doesn't respond. Julia Bascom, deputy executive director of the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, recently told 60 Minutes:
In the show itself, it's been really great to see her movements and her way of communication respected... Julia flaps and jumps when she's happy"
Elmo told Lesley Stahl, "We really like Julia. She's really special to us, Miss Lesley." As for Julia? When Stahl asked about her new friends, she responded with "Fun, fun, fun, fun, fun, fun, fun."
You can watch the episode introducing Julia below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dKCdV20zLMs
Big props to
Sesame Street for taking this awesome step towards representing all children! And Julia, I think I speak for all our readers when I say we're looking forward to getting to know you better!
