Dr. Loretta Long was one of the first cast members of Sesame Street—she is one of only three characters who were on the show since episode one! Early Susan rocked her hair in a soft bouffant, typical of that sixties-into-seventies era.
Watch here.
Before 227, Alaina Reed Hall was known and adored as Olivia on Sesame Street. Olivia made quite an impression on young Afrobella because she rocked long, beautiful braids. And she was one of the best singers on the show!
Watch her here.
One of my favorite recurring cartoons on Sesame Street in the 80’s was Billy Joe Jive and his partner Smart Susie Sunset. These two “super crime fighting aces” had awesome afros and style, and solved the case every time.
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The I Love My Hair clip came long after I was a grown woman, but I LOVED it. I Love My Hair became a big hit and spawned some highly coveted teeshirts. Here’s hoping Sesame Street continues to be that window of diversity for little black girls around the world for many years to come!
Watch here.
Afrobella was the natural hair blogger at AOL’s Black Voices and a writer for Vogue Italia’s Vogue Black website. She has also presented keynotes at several major media expos and seminars.
