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~@sesamestreet premiered about six months before I was born. I literally grew up with it. And then my children did. The Boy’s first word was “Elmo.” Some of my earliest memories are skits from the show. And that’s why we need to talk about... Roosevelt Franklin. #Sesame50 
Roosevelt Franklin was a Muppet in the very early years of @sesamestreet, and he was clearly Black. Not just voiced by @hollyrpeete’s dad Matt, but meant to represent Black kids. But Franklin was seen as both too Black & not Black enough. muppet.fandom.com/wiki/Roosevelt… #Sesame50
I LOVED Roosevelt Franklin in @sesamestreet. I had his album (judge me not). And even though he was purple, I identified with him. I KNEW he was Black like me, even at 5. One could also say he introduced kids to hip hop. Here he is with his mom. #Sesame50
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When Roosevelt Franklin was no long on @sesamestreet (with no explanation), I noticed. It was a loss. We talk about representation all the time, and I want you to know that kids notice at a very early age and deserve to be seen. Long Live Roosevelt Franklin! #Sesame50
I also want to acknowledge the Native American representation that @sesamestreet had early on. Buffy and her son Cody taught us about their indigenous culture, and also normalized breastfeeding in public. #Sesame50
~@sesamestreet has been inclusive both in front of and behind the camera. Witness Madeline Anderson, an early producer and director on the show. #Sesame50
I haven’t made it to @sesamestreet (YET). It is at the very top of my bucket list. The closest I've gotten is meeting Gordon at the White House Easter Egg roll during the Obama Administration (#ThanksObama). I completely fangirled at my big age and nearly cried. #Sesame50
