The announcement of USAID’s $20 million funding for a “Sesame Street” TV show in Iraq was conflated with the Ahlan Simsim Iraq educational program. While the initiative utilizes characters from the show, it primarily supports early childhood development in conflict zones, enhancing localized learning materials and teacher training, rather than creating a new TV series.
On February 5, 2025, during a press conference, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) had earmarked $20 million for a “Sesame Street” television program in Iraq. This announcement was made while the Trump administration was contemplating cuts to USAID funding.
Leavitt, while addressing concerns from Democrats regarding federal funding cuts, mentioned various allocations including $20 million towards the new Iraq-based “Sesame Street” show. The senator’s remarks were echoed by Sen. Joni Ernst during a Senate hearing on February 13, 2025, adding to the claims made by the administration.
The claims regarding the “Sesame Street” program in Iraq are reportedly conflated with a related educational initiative known as Ahlan Simsim Iraq. This program, initiated by USAID in 2021, is distinct from the television show but utilizes characters from “Sesame Street” in its curriculum targeted at families in conflict areas.
According to archived information from USAID, the agency allocated $20 million to Sesame Workshop over a six-year period to support the Ahlan Simsim Iraq initiative. However, it is crucial to clarify that this funding is solely for early childhood development efforts rather than a new television series.
Snopes reached out for comments from various parties, including the White House and USAID, to gain insight into the funding details presented. Unfortunately, there was no substantive clarification concerning the $20 million figure mentioned in the media. Despite the funding discrepancies, Sesame Workshop affirmed that the money was indeed directed towards the Ahlan Simsim Iraq program, which features localized educational content linked to the existing show.
The Ahlan Simsim Iraq initiative is dedicated to the development of localized materials such as storybooks, activity manuals, classroom resources, and training guides. Its primary objective is to enhance early childhood education through improved teacher training and support for parents and caregivers in conflict-affected regions.
In summary, the announcement of funding for a “Sesame Street” show in Iraq was mischaracterized, as it relates specifically to the Ahlan Simsim Iraq educational initiative funded by USAID. While the initiative involves the use of characters from “Sesame Street,” it is primarily focused on early childhood development rather than a singular television production. Therefore, it is imperative to distinguish between the educational program and any assumptions of producing a standalone show.
Original Source: www.snopes.com
