We the People
Kids say
Based on 5 reviews
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We the People
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that We the People is an outstanding star-studded collection of music videos that teach kids lessons about civics and government in the United States. The only iffy content is a few visual depictions of weapons in a war context and occasional mild language like "screwed." While the music videos are appropriate for kids as young as 8, the educational content will feel most relevant to middle and high schoolers who are learning civics in school. Parents should know that the videos are generally non-partisan, but some of the content leans slightly left.
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What's the Story?
WE THE PEOPLE is a collection of music videos designed to teach kids and teens about U.S. civics, government, and history. It was created by Chris Nee (Doc McStuffins) and co-produced by the Obamas' Higher Ground production company. Each of the 10 three-minute music videos focuses on a different civics topic, such as the Bill of Rights, taxes, or federal vs. state power. The songs are written and performed by celebrities like Broadway stars (Lin-Manuel Miranda and Daveed Diggs from Hamilton), musicians (Adam Lambert, H.E.R., Andra Day, and Brandi Carlile), and other notables (poet Amanda Gorman). Many of the songs encourage kids to become engaged in civics by learning more about the U.S. government and taking action.
Is It Any Good?
We the People is a superlative effort from a diverse group of talented creators. It's a bit reductive to say that the series is an updated Schoolhouse Rock (though the creators do cite that series, as well as Hamilton, as inspiration). We the People expands on the strengths of Schoolhouse Rock and explains how each civics concept actually affects kids' everyday lives. Each song showcases different musical genres and styles, and the songs are legitimately great bops that kids and teens will want to listen to again and again. The lyrics cover pretty complex topics in surprisingly nuanced ways. They also very much meet the moment (released in summer 2021), and encourage kids to be engaged with the issues and take action. Each music video was spearheaded by a different director, and the varying visual styles will even appeal to kids who are too young to understand a lot of the content. We the People will be a breath of fresh air for teens who are learning about civics in school (and teachers looking to add some pizzazz to their lesson plans). Younger kids will also like the fun songs and animation, and probably learn a little too.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the music videos conveyed the importance of being curious and learning more about the U.S. government. After watching the videos, is there anything you'd like to learn more about? What are some good sources we can use to find out more together?
Many of the songs encourage us to do have integrity and do the right thing when it comes to participating in the government. How can you do your part? How can our family participate in our government and community?
TV Details
- Premiere date: July 4, 2021
- Cast: Lin-Manuel Miranda, Janelle Monáe, Andra Day, Amanda Gorman, Daveed Diggs
- Network: Netflix
- Genre: Educational
- Topics: Activism, History, Music and Sing-Along
- Character Strengths: Curiosity, Integrity
- TV rating: TV-Y7
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: February 28, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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Schoolhouse Rock!
Classic, clever, kitschy songs that teach.
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Schoolhouse Rock! The Election Collection
Groovy '70s/'80s TV shorts sing history lessons.
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Parks and Recreation
Local government spoof for mature viewers is goofy at heart.
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