Mattel, the renowned toy manufacturer, has unveiled its first-ever Barbie doll with Down’s syndrome, aiming to expand the inclusivity of its iconic doll lineup.
In an announcement, Mattel shared that it collaborated with the National Down Syndrome Society in the United States to create the doll, which features a shorter frame and longer torso than other Barbies.
According to Mattel, the novel doll also boasts a rounder face shape, almond-shaped eyes, smaller ears, and a flattened nasal bridge.
Furthermore, Mattel noted, “The doll’s palms even display a single crease, a trait commonly linked to individuals with Down’s syndrome.”
The doll is outfitted in a puff-sleeved dress embellished with butterflies and flowers in yellow and blue – hues that symbolize Down syndrome awareness. Additionally, Mattel explained that she dons a pink necklace featuring three upward-pointing chevrons representing the three copies of chromosome 21 and pink ankle-foot orthotics.
Lisa McKnight, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Barbie & Dolls at Mattel, expressed in the statement, “We aim to allow all children to see themselves in Barbie while also inspiring them to play with dolls who may not resemble them.”
Following the launch of this Down’s syndrome-inclusive Barbie, Mattel has received widespread praise for taking a significant step towards promoting diversity and representation in its product offerings. The company hopes the new doll will foster empathy and understanding among children while providing a sense of belonging to those with Down’s syndrome.
In recent years, Mattel has been actively working on diversifying the Barbie line, introducing dolls with various body types, skin tones, hair textures, and disabilities. Some notable examples include the wheelchair-using Barbie, the prosthetic limb-wearing doll, and the vitiligo-affected Barbie.
Industry experts and advocates for disability rights commend Mattel for their ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and representative toy landscape. These initiatives not only empower children with disabilities but also teach valuable lessons about acceptance and diversity to all children who play with these dolls.
As Mattel continues to break barriers and challenge stereotypes with its Barbie line, the company demonstrates its commitment to promoting inclusivity and fostering a more compassionate and understanding world for future generations.
