American kids are hungry. Well, at least 16 million of them. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, that's how many children are "food insecure," including Sesame Street's newest character, Lily.
Lily will represent a growing number of kids who don't know where their next meal is coming from or when it'll happen. She'll make her debut on a Sesame Workshop-produced prime-time special, Growing Hope Against Hunger.
We think it's great that Sesame Street is tackling the issue of domestic hunger, and think the show should totally continue introducing new characters to shed light on relevant societal issues.
Below, check out our list of puppets that Sesame Street should create.
5. Anna the Anorexic
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about one in 25 girls will have anorexia in their life. It is one of the most prevalent mental disorders in our society, but oftentimes overlooked. Why not toss a bone-skinny Muppet on Sesame Street who can barely stand up because of malnutrition to teach kids the dangers of anorexia?
4. Sammy and His Two Dads
Sesame Street is located in Manhattan, and earlier this year the great state of New York passed a bill that allows same-sex couples to marry. The show, which promotes diversity, should introduce a happy family composed of two dads and a baby to showcase a different type of families.
3. Jose the Steroid Junkie
Steroids are whack. They make your balls shrink and your nose bleed. Using them can result in back pimples, kidney failure, and sometimes death. They don't make you a better athlete and often cost you friendships. Work hard and don't cheat, or you'll end up living in Arizona playing private-league ball like that other famous Jose.
2. Carl the Cyber-Bully
Cyber-bullying is fucked up. In fact, Cultist isn't down with any form of bullying. Kids need to learn at an early age that making fun of one another is not cool. The Sesame Street gang should teach Carl to get a long with everyone.
1. Asthmatic Ashley
Secondhand smoke is incredibly dangerous, especially to children. Sudden infant death syndrome, ear infections, and pneumonia are all serious issues that might result from secondhand smoke. An asthmatic Sesame Street character whose parents smoke cigarettes around the house could be a valuable tool for teaching young children.
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