Barbie Releases Its First Down Syndrome Doll To Raise Awareness From Young
Completely rewriting its narrative of a one-size-fits-all ideal, Mattel is ensuring that the next generation will think of Barbie dolls as a full gamut that all kids can see themselves in. The latest has an entirely different facial structure and silhouette, meant to represent children with an extra copy of the 21st chromosome.
Barbie’s first doll portrayed to have Down syndrome was designed alongside the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) so as to develop a more accurate image that the community can immediately resonate with.
NDSS, which supports individuals with the genetic condition and their loved ones by providing resources and encouraging policy change in the country, contributed to all aspects of the doll’s design—from her physical appearance to her outfit and the packaging.
Mattel also enlisted Ellie Goldstein, an English model who is also appearing on British Vogue magazine’s inclusive May 2023 issue spotlighting disabled tastemakers, to introduce the new doll.
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“When I saw the doll, I felt so emotional and proud,” Goldstein revels on Instagram. “Diversity is important as people need to see more people like me out there in the world and not be hidden away.”
The doll sports an all-new face sculpt with a rounder shape, smaller ears, slightly slanted almond-shaped eyes, and a flatter nose bridge, mirroring the facial features of women with Down syndrome.
Even her palms contain a single line, an attribute shared between those in the community.
The wardrobe choice itself is an ode to the Down syndrome experience. The butterflies and yellow and blue palette of the puff-sleeved dress are symbols of Down syndrome awareness. Meanwhile, Barbie’s pink necklace features a pendant of three upward chevrons, alluding to the three copies of chromosome 21 and “the lucky few” to grow up with the unique condition.
The doll is wearing matching pink ankle foot orthotics (AFOs), which some children use to support their feet and ankles, along with zip-up sneakers.
Mattel explains that diversifying its lineup is crucial for children’s pivotal early years, which shape their perceptions for the rest of their life. “When a child plays with Barbie, they play out their dreams and imagine they can be anything,” the brand furthers.
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“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,” expresses Lisa McKnight, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Barbie & Dolls at Mattel.
“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.”
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NDSS President and CEO Kandi Pickard chimes in: “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.”
The Down syndrome doll joins Barbie’s 2023 Fall Fashionista lineup, and is now retailing in limited quantities for US$10.99.
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[via iNews, Good Morning America, Business Wire, images via various sources]
