Sesame Street Writing Fellowship Shines a Spotlight on Diversity

Since it premiered in 1969, characters hailing from various backgrounds have called Sesame Street home. Now, the iconic children’s series is launching a program to promote diversity behind the scenes as well. This summer, a group of rising writers from underrepresented demographics will be invited to participate in a writing fellowship at the Sesame Street offices in New York City.

The Sesame Street Writers’ Room will consist of six three-hour-long weeknight sessions during the months of June and July. In the meetings, seven to 10 writers will learn the ins and outs of creating children’s media, receive mentoring from industry professionals and Sesame Street alumni, and complete at least one script of their own. Two students may receive additional guidance and the chance to work on more projects after the program ends.

The main goal of the fellowship is to elevate talent from communities that are sometimes harder to spot on television. “As a company that advocates diversity," the website explains, "we recognize the importance of representation both on and off-screen, so that children of all backgrounds can see themselves in the content they consume.”

If this opportunity sounds like a good fit for you, you have until March 31 to submit your resume, script sample, personal statement, and other information about yourself. All applicants must be age 21 or older, and resumes with extensive media writing experience (such as writing several episodes for a network or cable show) won’t be eligible.