U Is for Urbanism - 99% Invisible Recap

Podcast: 99% Invisible

Published: 2025-12-02

Duration: 38 min

Guests: Anna Coday, Alexandra Lang

Summary

Sesame Street has not only educated children in academic concepts but has also subtly taught them about urbanism and the qualities of a vibrant community. The show's setting and the principles it embodies align closely with the urban theories of Jane Jacobs.

What Happened

The episode dives into how Sesame Street has been more than an educational children's show, shaping perceptions of urban living and community. Anna Coday, a journalist, highlights how the show has influenced children's views on neighborhoods, contributing to a desire for walkable communities. The show's setting was inspired by the urban environment of 1960s New York City, aiming to reflect a positive community amid a period of urban decline and white flight.

Sesame Street was created by Joan Gans-Cooney and John Stone, who wanted to educate inner-city children through television, a medium more accessible than books or newspapers at the time. The show's urban setting was a deliberate choice, offering a relatable and harmonious community for children living in cities. This choice was also influenced by the 1968 GiveaDam campaign, which aimed to improve the perception of urban neighborhoods.

The show's design aligns with Jane Jacobs' urban planning principles, which advocate for mixed-use neighborhoods, short city blocks, a mix of old and new buildings, and a dense population to support vibrant, safe communities. These elements create what Jacobs describes as the 'sidewalk ballet,' a dynamic interaction of diverse community members.

Despite its success, Sesame Street faced criticism and political challenges, such as accusations of promoting urban liberal lifestyles. However, it has remained a beloved institution due to its portrayal of a multicultural, inclusive community.

The show's idealism is embodied in its characters and narratives, such as the portrayal of a black married couple owning a brownstone, which was atypical for television at the time. This idealism has given children a vision of urban life that is diverse and harmonious.

In the latter part of the episode, architecture critic Alexandra Lang discusses the challenges of designing urban spaces for children and teenagers. She highlights the importance of creating inclusive play areas that cater to all ages, emphasizing the need for design that allows children to engage in risky play to develop independence.

Key Insights