The holiday season is a time for tradition, joy, and storytelling, with “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” being one of the most iconic tales recited across generations. Yet, this cherished narrative, originating from the 1823 poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” by Clement Clarke Moore, rarely reflects the diversity of the families who celebrate the season. Janice Robinson-Celeste, an innovator in children’s media, is changing this with her new animation, It’s Almost Christmas, produced by Ethnic Animations.

This fresh take on the classic poem not only infuses the holiday tradition with vibrant, original storytelling but also introduces characters who reflect the Black community. The animated short breathes life into a Christmas narrative that celebrates representation, bringing joy and relatability to children and families who rarely see themselves in holiday media.

The Origins of a Holiday Staple

The original “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” set the tone for how many envision Santa Claus and his magical Christmas Eve journey. Written nearly 200 years ago, the poem described scenes of stockings hung with care, a jolly man with a sack of toys, and a night brimming with wonder. While the imagery transcends cultures, the stories that followed often neglected to include characters of color or acknowledge the traditions of non-White families.

For years, Christmas media reinforced a single narrative of who could partake in the holiday magic. This lack of representation inadvertently sidelined families of diverse backgrounds, leaving them yearning for stories that mirrored their experiences and culture.

Ethnic Animations: Leading the Charge for Inclusion

Ethnic Animations, founded by Robinson-Celeste, is addressing this gap by creating content where children of all backgrounds can see themselves in joyful, empowering roles. The studio’s mission is rooted in the belief that representation matters—especially in children’s media.

“It’s Almost Christmas” exemplifies this mission, bringing Black characters to the forefront of a traditionally Eurocentric holiday narrative. Through its colorful animation, catchy rhythms, and heartwarming story, the short creates an experience that resonates universally while spotlighting Black culture.

This initiative isn’t just about creating visibility; it’s about fostering inclusivity and ensuring that every child feels a sense of belonging during the festive season. When young viewers see characters who look like them celebrating Christmas, it instills pride and reinforces the idea that their stories and traditions are equally important.

Why Representation in Animation Matters

Animation is one of the most accessible and engaging forms of storytelling, particularly for children. However, the industry has historically been slow to embrace diversity. For decades, characters of color were often relegated to supporting roles or depicted through stereotypes.

In holiday media, this disparity is even more glaring. Rarely do we see families of color depicted as central figures in festive stories. By addressing this imbalance, creators like Robinson-Celeste are reshaping the cultural landscape of animation.

Research has shown that representation in media profoundly impacts children’s self-esteem and worldview. Seeing diverse characters in positive roles helps normalize inclusion and fosters a broader understanding of cultural richness. This is the magic of It’s Almost Christmas: it celebrates Black families while creating a story that everyone can enjoy.

A Fresh Narrative for the Holidays

In It’s Almost Christmas, Robinson-Celeste has taken a beloved tradition and infused it with originality and cultural relevance. The animation not only brings joy but also bridges gaps in storytelling, making it a must-watch for families this holiday season.

The rhythmic cadence of the narrative, reminiscent of the original poem, creates a sense of nostalgia while introducing a new generation to a story they can truly call their own. With dazzling visuals, memorable characters, and a storyline that captures the wonder of the holiday season, the animation is poised to become a holiday staple in its own right.

The Future of Inclusive Storytelling

As creators like Janice Robinson-Celeste continue to innovate and diversify the landscape of children’s media, the hope is that every child will grow up with stories that celebrate their heritage and experiences. It’s Almost Christmas is more than an animation; it’s a movement toward creating a world where all children feel seen, valued, and included in the magic of the holidays.

This holiday season, let’s celebrate diversity, inclusion, and the timeless joy of Christmas with stories that reflect us all.