TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - There's a new face on "Sesame Street."
This is "Julia," and she has autism.
A local organization that supports people on the autism spectrum is sharing why this new character is good news for the community.
Julia makes her television debut next month which is also Autism Awareness Month.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of 68 children has "autism spectrum disorder."
Julia isn't the first character on TV to highlight people on the spectrum.
There have been characters in TV shows like "L.A. Law" and "The Arc of Florida" says it's proud to see an iconic children's show feature a character on the autism spectrum.
Julia first appeared on the show's digital storybook online in 2015.
The creators of Sesame Street say they hope will help kids better understand those who have autism.
Get this: The woman who is Julia's puppeteer is Stacey Gordon. She's a mother with a son who has autism.
"Disability is a natural part of life, and they're more accepting if they grow up with peers who have disabilities in school, and I think Sesame Street can help the younger kids accept that," said Deborah Linton, CEO of the Arc. "We all are better off when everyone is included in our communities, and that includes the characters on Sesame Street, especially a new Muppet on the spectrum."
The Arc of Florida says "Sesame Street" has had a number of diverse characters in its history, but this is the first time it's introduced one on the autism spectrum.
As for the organization, the Arc provides early intervention programs, special education, adult training and helps individuals with employment across the state.
