Mattel unveiled a new Barbie doll representing a individual with Down syndrome on Tuesday.
The doll is the newest addition to the Barbie Fashionistas line, which is aimed at providing kids additional representations of elegance and combating the stigma about physical disabilities.
“Barbie performs an significant purpose in a child’s early activities, and we are focused to executing our part to counter social stigma by way of perform,” said Lisa McKnight, Mattel’s government vice president and international head of Barbie & Dolls.
“Our target is to permit all children to see them selves in Barbie, although also encouraging young children to play with dolls who do not glimpse like themselves,’ McKnight included. “Doll engage in exterior of a child’s individual lived knowledge can train being familiar with and make a bigger sense of empathy, top to a much more accepting planet. We are happy to introduce a Barbie doll with Down syndrome to improved replicate the earth about us and even more our commitment to celebrating inclusion through enjoy.”
Mattel explained it worked carefully with the National Down Syndrome Culture (NDSS) in the course of the doll’s layout procedure, together with sculpting, outfits, equipment and packaging.
“It was an honor doing work with Barbie on the Barbie doll with Down syndrome,” NDSS president and CEO Kandi Pickard stated. “This indicates so a lot for our local community, who for the initially time, can participate in with a Barbie doll that looks like them. This Barbie serves as a reminder that we really should under no circumstances underestimate the electricity of representation. It is a enormous phase ahead for inclusion and a second that we are celebrating.”
The doll characteristics a new face and human body sculpt to be additional consultant of ladies with Down syndrome, like a rounder deal with, scaled-down ears, flat nasal bridge and eyes marginally slanted in an almond shape. The doll’s palms also contain a one line, which is a attribute generally connected with people with Down syndrome. A clinical qualified reviewed the bodily features of the new doll.
The doll’s dress is yellow and blue, two colors involved with Down syndrome recognition, and options butterflies. A pink necklace consists of three chevrons intended to symbolize the three copies of the 21st chromosome, the genetic content that will cause the characteristics connected with Down syndrome. The doll also has ankle and foot orthotics, which some children with Down syndrome use to aid their lower human body.
Barbie introduced a movie of children with Down syndrome participating in with the new doll, alongside with parents’ accounts of why the doll implies so much.
Mattel said the Barbie doll with Down syndrome, together with other 2023 Tumble Fashionista dolls, is offered in limited portions online and will strike shelves this summer months and tumble for $10.99.
