Posted by Mattel has introduced a new Barbie doll representing a person with Down syndrome. This way, children will not only see a toy they can relate to but also a toy that makes them feel included. Prior to this, Mattel’s Barbie dolls were slammed for always promoting unrealistic beauty standards. But the company is making efforts to break away from its image.
Mattel has provided a wider range of dolls, introducing Barbie and Ken dolls that come with wheelchairs, hearing aids, vitiligo, and prosthetics, to name a few.
Also in its 2023 new lineup, the company featured the most diverse line: a doll with Down syndrome.
“We are proud to introduce a Barbie doll with Down syndrome to better reflect the world around us and further our commitment to celebrating inclusion through play,” Lisa McKnight, the executive vice president, and global head of Barbie & Dolls at Mattel said in a statement. “Our goal is to enable all children to see themselves in Barbie while also encouraging children to play with dolls who do not look like themselves.
McKnight added, “Doll play outside of a child’s own lived experience can teach understanding and build a greater sense of empathy, leading to a more accepting world.”
For effective representation, Barbie partnered with the National Down Syndrome Society, which has also claimed the doll’s body was designed to reflect a shorter frame, a longer torso, and a round face with smaller ears and almond-shaped, slanted eyes. The doll also sports a yellow and blue butterfly-themed dress, symbolic of Down syndrome awareness.
The doll’s pink necklace equally holds significance, as its three upward chevrons symbolize “the three copies of the 21st chromosome.”
The NDSS President and CEO, Kandi Pickard, said in a statement, “This Barbie serves as a reminder that we should never underestimate the power of representation. “It is a huge step forward for inclusion and a moment that we are celebrating.” Also, Ellie Goldstein, a British model with Down syndrome, has shared how important seeing the doll was to her.
Ellie wrote on Instagram, “When I saw the doll, I felt so emotional and proud. It means a lot to me that children will be able to play with the doll and learn that everyone is different. “I am proud that Barbie chose me to show the dolls to the world.” She added, “Diversity is important as people need to see more people like me out there in the world and not be hidden away. Barbie will help make this happen.”
Nonetheless, the Barbie doll with Down syndrome will be available this summer and fall for $10.99.
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