On November 6th parents across the world will be taking their children to see much anticipated The Peanuts Movie. Happy smiling faces with popcorn or nachos in one hand and a slush in the other will pack out theaters. The refreshing outing will be much needed. Especially since we are bombarded by sickening news of racial tension and lives being lost. What does that have to do with The Peanuts Movie you might ask. Well, July 31st is a historical day in the Iconic Comic Strip. Today is also the 47th anniversary of Peanuts first African-American character, “FRANKLIN,”! Harriet Glickman, a school teacher wrote a letter to the comic strip’s creator Charles M. Schulz following the death of Martin Luther King urging him that an African American character needed to be added to the popular comic strip. “Franklin Armstrong” was introduced on July 31, 1968, representing the importance of desegregation.
A much needed celebration, You can honor today by posting a photo on your social media platforms with the hashtag #FranklinDay, as well as online in an effort to highlight “Franklin’s” role in the PEANUTS franchise throughout the years and his next appearance in The Peanuts Movie on November 6!
WHO: “Franklin”, 20th Century Fox and The Peanuts Movie
WHEN: Friday, July 31, 2015
HOW: Here is how you can support Franklin Day!
1- Share with your audience the details and significance about this historical moment
2- You can post a photo on your social media platforms with the hashtag: #FranklinDay
AND/OR
3- You can also post the attached “HAPPY FRANKLIN DAY” social media card to you social platforms with the hashtag: #FranklinDay
4- Encourage your audience to join in the fun and post either of the above with the hashtag: #FranklinDay!
“Franklin” Fun Facts
- THE PEANUTS MOVIE is his first appearance on screen since 1999.
- “Franklin” has been voiced by 19 actors throughout the years. He will be voiced by Mar Mar in THE PEANUTS MOVIE.
- “Franklin” is an EXCELLENT dancer – he is shown breakdancing in several of the show’s specials.
- Ice Hockey is “Franklin’s” favorite sport. He is shown practicing in many of the comic strips.
- “Franklin” is Charlie Brown’s best friend; they met on the beach in his first appearance.
Check out the Official Trailer!