Mattel Unveils Diverse Barbie Dolls: Blind Barbie and Black Barbie with Down Syndrome Champion Inclusivity
July 24, 2024Mattel, the toy manufacturer, has introduced a Barbie doll with a visual impairment and a Black Barbie with Down syndrome to promote diversity and inclusivity.
The blind Barbie doll, priced at \\u00a311.99, includes a white and red cane, silver sunglasses, a pink blouse, a ruffle skirt, and high-contrast hook and loop fasteners for children to dress the doll.
The blind Barbie features a white cane, vibrant clothes, Velcro fastenings, and a unique eye gaze to cater to children with low vision.
Distinct features of the blind Barbie include a white and red cane with a marshmallow tip, unique eye gaze, and tactile fabric clothing.
Lucy Edwards, a blind British journalist and activist, praises the doll for providing representation and support for the blind community.
Lucy Edwards sees the Barbie dolls as a positive step towards inclusivity for blind youth, reflecting a world where they can thrive.
The National Down Syndrome Society expresses enthusiasm for the new dolls, emphasizing the importance of representation for the disability community.
The RNIB in the UK supports the Barbie doll launch to promote joy and inclusivity in playtime.
Both the blind Barbie and the Black Barbie with Down syndrome will be featured in the Barbie Doll Adventures YouTube series, expanding representation for the disability community.
The Black Barbie's design incorporates details symbolizing Down syndrome awareness, such as blue and yellow colors and three arrows representing the third 21st chromosome.
The initiative by Mattel aims to educate the public about blindness and Down syndrome, provide representation for underrepresented groups, and promote inclusivity in the toy industry.
Consideration for blind children extends to the packaging, which includes braille and easy accessibility for play, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity.
Summary based on 9 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Jul 23, 2024
‘A positive step forward’: Mattel launches first blind BarbieMashable • Jul 23, 2024
Mattel unveils first blind Barbie in new diverse doll launchThe Independent • Jul 23, 2024
First blind Barbie released by toy maker Mattel