With numerous awards and a reach spanning over 180 countries, it’s no wonder why the children’s show Peppa Pig was dubbed a “global phenomenon.” Aside from the show’s colorful visuals and amusing characters, Peppa Pig is hogging the spotlight once again for its progressive representation of parenting. Here’s everything you need to know.
“Families”
The British children’s show received praises after introducing its first-ever same-sex couple in the show’s 18-year history. In an episode entitled “Families” that aired Tuesday (September 6), Peppa Pig met Penny the Polar Bear’s “two mummies.”
“I live with my mummy and my other mummy. One mummy is a doctor, and one mummy cooks spaghetti.” Penny happily explained while drawing a portrait of her family.
An online petition
Before this groundbreaking move, an online petition was made, calling on the show to feature same-sex parents. The petition has received more than 20,000 signatures as of this writing. It says children watching Peppa Pig are at an impressionable age, and excluding same-sex families will teach them that only families with either a single parent or two parents of different sexes are normal.
Is this too “woke”?
The episode received mixed reactions. Some people called it indoctrination and criticized the show for being too “woke.” One user wrote featuring a same-sex couple on Peppa Pig sexualizes children.
Meanwhile, this person is not letting their child watch the show ever again.
Or is this what we need to see?
However, others were delighted to see such positive LGBTQ+ representation on a children’s show. Many were happy about the show’s progressive move.
Louder for the people at the back!
And one user is asking for some raging viewers to calm down.
Why does representation matter?
LGBTQ+ representation matters because it helps normalize the idea of embracing diversity and one’s individuality, especially for questioning children and teens.
CEO of LGBTQIA+ charity Minus 18, Micah Scott, says, “Whether a child themself is LGBTQIA+ or from a family with same-sex parents, seeing your own experience or identity in TV shows like Peppa Pig goes a long way in helping young people feel less alone.”
And guess what? We’d like to see more inclusivity and representation in future episodes!
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments!
