…Researched and contributed by Henry George for TDPel Media.
Mattel, the American toy company, has launched its first-ever Barbie doll representing a person with Down’s syndrome.
The toy is now available for purchase in US retailers for $10.99 and can be pre-ordered from Smyth’s for UK customers.
Mattel collaborated with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) in the US to bring the product to market.
The doll has a new face and body sculpt to be “more illustrative of women with Down syndrome”.
Her palms also include a single line, a characteristic associated with those with the condition.
Inclusivity and diversity in toys
Mattel said the doll was created to “allow even more children to see themselves in Barbie, as well as have Barbie reflect the world around them”.
The toy is part of Mattel’s efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in toys.
The company has teamed up with British model Ellie Goldstein, who has Down’s syndrome, to launch its campaign.
Goldstein expressed her excitement about the doll, saying that it meant a lot to her and that she was proud that Barbie chose her to show the doll to the world.
Representation and awareness
The doll’s puff-sleeved dress pattern features butterflies and yellow and blue colours, which are associated with Down syndrome awareness.
Kandi Pickard, NDSS President and CEO, said: “This means so much for our community, who for the first time, can play with a Barbie doll that looks like them.
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.”
Positive impact on families
Carol Boys, chief executive of the UK Down’s Syndrome Association, also welcomed the launch of the doll.
She said that families often feel their children are not represented enough in the mainstream media and that they welcome the fact that children in their community will be able to play with a doll that represents them and their lives.
The launch of the doll is a significant step towards promoting representation and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities, as well as raising awareness of Down’s syndrome.