This week saw two nonprofit campaigns that took a bold approach by mixing childhood innocence with some cheeky language to grab attention. However, their outcomes were quite different.
LeVar Burton and “Go the F*** to Sleep”
First up, we have the legendary LeVar Burton from the childhood favorite, Reading Rainbow. During a charity marathon hosted by Extra Life, he took to the screen to read the wildly popular (and hilariously inappropriate) book, “Go the F*** to Sleep.” Naturally, I was all in for that, and it turns out thousands of others were as well. Here’s a man who shaped a generation during after-school PBS marathons, and now he’s reading a parody children’s book filled with colorful language to raise funds for a children’s hospital. What a riot! Honestly, would we have flocked to watch if he’d opted for “Sammy the Dinosaur”? Probably not.
The Tutu Girls and “F-bombs for Feminism”
On the flip side, there was a more NSFW video featuring adorable girls in tutus dropping furious “F-bombs for Feminism.” While I won’t link to the video due to some questionable practices from the group behind it, I’ll admit the combination of glittery tutus and profane language caught my eye. Yet, I found it unsettling, and I’m a proud feminist who loves to support women’s rights. Sure, I can cuss; as a word enthusiast and writer, I appreciate the potency of a well-placed expletive. But I’m not one to hurl obscenities around like confetti, and you’ll rarely find me using them in professional settings—mostly.
As those girls in pink tutus unleashed a barrage of “F” bombs, I completely lost track of their original message. Each cuss felt like another nail being driven into the coffin of their cause. In contrast, every F-bomb from Mr. Burton brought an infectious giggle. He’s an adult, making it relatable. His reading was a crass yet cleverly crafted echo of the frustrations we parents often feel. Imagine a beloved childhood figure bringing that humor to adults while dropping some well-timed swearing. The tutu-clad girls, however? They seemed to be throwing out swears without purpose, diluting the message of gender equality they aimed to champion. (And by the way, if it were Amy Poehler or Uzo Aduba in Burton’s place, I’d still be tuned in!)
Words Carry Weight
To the tutu girls and their producers, I’d share the same wisdom I impart to my young daughter—who, despite my colorful language when she’s not around, has never sworn. Words carry weight. Wield them wisely, or you might find yourself in a bit of a pickle.
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Summary
Two campaigns using profanity and childhood themes had very different impacts. LeVar Burton’s reading of a classic adult-themed children’s book engaged audiences effectively, while a group of girls cursing for feminism lost their message amid excessive swearing. It’s a reminder that words are powerful and should be used thoughtfully.