Kids really just want to be kids - by Jefferson Nnadiekwe

I often think about how different it was being a kid then, and a being kid now. No.. this isn't a piece on the difference in disciplinary methods. This is more about something else - stay with me. As kids then, other than the usual adult supervision and protection, there was this freedom that allowed us to be what we were: kids. We were not exposed to as much identity politics and influences as is the case in modern times. The media rarely tried to draw our attentions towards such topics, or expose us to certain agenda. Our rights to just be kids were not threatened or a tool of propaganda. Let's examine the role of media in the lives of today's children. Some weeks ago, I sat with my nieces, as they watched some of their cartoon programs. I couldn't help but notice the amount of propaganda and agenda being pushed in each show. It got me thinking whether all that was necessary. Characters are made to be a certain way, do or say certain things, which all just came across as a form of campaign. It all took away the entertainment value. Atleast for me. There are some children's programs these days laced with a little bit of sexual and racial identity politics. All in a bid to make them inclusive at a young age. It is believed that if they can get on the inclusivity train that early, they'd make better adults. However, the problem with constantly shoving a particular ideology on to humans, is that it builds an eventual resistance. I watched cartoons as a kid, with other kids. And I do not recall any one of us being drawn to a character because of his sexual or racial, or political affiliations. I cannot remember any of my mates who loved or disliked spider man or superman, because they were a couple of white guys. We didn't care about that. We just loved their abilities and personalities. We acted like the power rangers, without caring for their sexual orientation. In all these, what mattered to us was the fun we had while we watched these programs. There is a lot of talk these days about catching kids young, and teaching the importance of inclusivity culture. But the question is; are these studios genuine about their intentions, or is it just another marketing strategy? The intent of an idea, is important to its success or failure. Now, I am not trying to invalidate any movement or orientation. What I am trying to say is sometimes we should let kids be kids, and not try to make them unofficial adults.

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