Tags: Afghanistan, Sesame Street
On Thursday, Sesame Street’s creative team unveiled their newest addition to the muppet team: Zari, a hijab-wearing feminist from Afghanistan.
While she won’t be featuring in the New York-neighborhood lineup of the show, Zari will be gracing screens in Afghanistan for the fifth season of Baghch-e-Simsim, the local co-production of Sesame Street.
Introducing…Zari! Our new friend in Afghanistan, joining #BaghcheSimSim for #Season5! She's a very special girl!pic.twitter.com/ggI0qpPR78
 — @sesameworkshop
According to a press release from the Sesame Street offices, Zari, which means “shimmering,” will teach her young audience about “girls’ empowerment, national identity, physical health, and social and emotional wellbeing.”
“Sesame Street has done more to educate and entertain than any other children’s program in Afghanistan,” said Saad Mohseni, Chairman of MOBY GROUP, the company that co-distributes Baghch-e-Simsim. “We are especially delighted about the introduction of Zari to Baghch-e-Simsim, which reflects Sesame’s commitment to the country and the show’s positive impact here.”
