Sesame Street non-profit to ‘downsize significantly’ with layoffs

Sesame Workshop, the non-profit organization behind the beloved children’s TV show Sesame Street, is facing major layoffs. CEO Sherrie Rollins Westin announced in a memo to staff that the organization plans to “downsize significantly” and make changes to its benefits and bonus program. This decision comes shortly after more than 200 employees announced their plans to unionize.

The layoffs are a result of various factors, including economic challenges in the media landscape, the end of a distribution deal with Warner Bros. Discovery, and policy changes affecting federal funding. These changes are necessary for Sesame Workshop to continue delivering on its mission in the face of a drastically changing media environment.

In response to the layoffs, employees of Sesame Workshop, including early childhood education experts, fundraisers, facilities staff, producers, and paralegals, announced their overwhelming support for unionizing with the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU). The unionization effort aims to give employees a voice in decisions that impact them, such as job security and fair pay.

Phoebe Gilpin, senior director of formal learning with Sesame Workshop, emphasized the importance of embodying the values taught on Sesame Street, such as kindness, fairness, and standing up for what’s right. By coming together as a union, employees believe they can create a stronger and more supportive workplace that aligns with the lessons taught on the show.

While writers, cast, and crew of Sesame Street have long been unionized, this marks the first time administrative workers at Sesame Workshop have sought union representation. The move towards unionization reflects a desire for all workers to have a voice in shaping the future of the organization.

The changes at Sesame Workshop highlight the challenges facing non-profit organizations in a rapidly evolving media landscape. By prioritizing the well-being and voice of its employees, Sesame Workshop is taking steps to ensure its continued success in delivering educational content to children around the world.