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Journalism of Courage
Since Barbie first graced shelves, her iconic plastic charm has sparked debates over unrealistic beauty ideals. In response, US toy manufacturer Mattel has been on a mission to diversify their lineup, crafting dolls that better reflect the richness of human diversity.
On Tuesday, Mattel unveiled a Blind Barbie, crafted in collaboration with the American Foundation for the Blind, reported the The New York Times. This special edition comes in a pink box adorned with Braille as well.
Sharing the new creation on Instagram via the official handle @barbie, the doll’s unique accessories include a red-and-white cane with a marshmallow roller tip and sunglasses tailored for light-sensitive eyes.
The accompanying caption read, “In partnership with @afb1921, Barbie proudly introduces the first Blind Barbie Fashionista doll, developed to authentically represent blind and low vision individuals. This doll features an upward and outward eye gaze, sunglasses, and a cane with a marshmallow tip. Textured fabrics enhance the sensory experience, making fashion elements more accessible with easy-to-open Braille packaging, and elbow articulation for comfortable cane use, facilitating accessibility to show that we are all Barbie.”
Her satin blouse and ruffled skirt were chosen for their tactile delight, based on the feedback from blind and low-vision children. Additionally, her bendable arms are designed in such a way to make her cane move in a truly thoughtful way.
Social media buzzed with enthusiasm, as the post garnered around 40,000 likes, reflecting widespread support and excitement for the new dolls. British broadcaster and disability activist @lucyedwardsofficial, who lost her sight at the age of 17, expressed her support as an ambassador for the campaign, writing, “I’m so honoured to be your blind Barbie ambassador – she is amazing!!”
A second user said, “Here we gooooooo !!!! Representation matters! My model self to be part of this project is amazing and I am screaming and in tears!” Meanwhile, a third user expressed, “This is so good for disability culture love it Barbie. I love it so so much.”
A fourth person commented, “I love you barbie. representation is so important, thank you.”
Mattel also introduced its first Black Barbie with Down syndrome, developed in collaboration with the National Down Syndrome Society. The New York Times report also explained that Mattel’s new Black Barbie with Down syndrome features subtle yet meaningful details, such as palms with a single line—a trait often associated with individuals with Down syndrome. Additionally, some hearts on her dress are adorned with three arrows, symbolizing the third copy of the 21st chromosome that defines Down syndrome.
Each doll embodies a thoughtful blend of innovation and inclusion, reflecting Mattel’s dedication to celebrating every individual and their story.
Krista Berger, a senior vice-president at Mattel, said the new dolls reflect the company’s dedication to global belonging and inclusivity. These Barbies are part of the Fashionistas line, which started in 2009 and includes dolls with various skin tones, body types, and disabilities, such as a Barbie in a wheelchair, a Barbie with vitiligo, and a Ken with a prosthetic leg.
