White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt claimed USAID allocated $20 million for a “Sesame Street” show in Iraq. This conflates funding for the Ahlan Simsim Iraq program, which supports early childhood education using localized content. Senator Joni Ernst later echoed this claim during a Senate hearing, but the funding’s purpose focuses on educational initiatives, not a standalone show.
On February 5, 2025, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced during a press briefing that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) had allocated $20 million to fund a “Sesame Street” TV show in Iraq. This statement was made while the administration was discussing potential cuts to federal funding and programs deemed wasteful.
At the press conference, Leavitt asserted that some Democrats were overly critical of the administration’s cuts, listing various funding areas including the alleged $20 million for the Iraq show. Senator Joni Ernst also echoed this claim during a Senate Homeland Security hearing on February 13, pertaining to a broader efficiency initiative associated with tech billionaire Elon Musk.
However, the assertion conflates a children’s television program utilizing “Sesame Street” characters with an educational initiative known as Ahlan Simsim Iraq, which USAID funded beginning in 2021. An archived page from the USAID website notes a commitment of $20 million to Sesame Workshop for this program, which aims to support early childhood development and education in conflict zones.
It is crucial to clarify that the funding announced pertains specifically to the Ahlan Simsim Iraq initiative, not a standalone “Sesame Street” production for Iraq. Despite the name similarity, Ahlan Simsim Iraq encompasses both the television content and educational materials designed for children, parents, and educators, providing resources to improve learning environments.
USAID’s funding covers costs related to producing localized media content and comprehensive educational materials, enhancing the quality of early childhood development. This includes storybooks, activity resources, and training guides for teachers and caregivers, demonstrating a multifaceted approach to childhood education in Iraq.
In summary, the claims regarding USAID funding for a new “Sesame Street” show in Iraq are misleading. The $20 million allocation pertains to Ahlan Simsim Iraq, an educational initiative that integrates media content alongside various educational resources. This program aims to fortify early childhood development through localized materials and support for teachers, distinguishing it from a separate, new television production. Accurate comprehension of the funding’s purpose is essential for understanding its educational objectives in conflict-affected regions.
Original Source: www.snopes.com
