'The Power Of Representation': Mattel Breaks Barriers With First-Ever Barbie Doll With Down Syndrome
The new Barbie doll, designed in collaboration with NDSS, is dressed in the colors and symbols of the community. She wears matching ankle and foot orthotics and a three-chevron necklace, representing the three copies of the 21st chromosome associated with Down syndrome.
Mattel's iconic Barbie doll is breaking new ground once again. For generations, Barbie dolls have been integral to many people's childhoods, with countless memories of playing with these iconic toys.
Even today, Barbie remains relevant for many kids, and now the toy company Mattel is taking a bold step towards inclusivity.
To promote diversity and inclusivity, Mattel recently collaborated with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) to create their first-ever Barbie doll, representing a person with Down syndrome.
The NDSS provided design input to ensure the doll accurately represents a person with Down syndrome.
Not only does this new Barbie have physical features representative of individuals with Down syndrome, but her dress and accessories also have unique significance.
This significant move by Mattel is a step towards promoting inclusion in toys and ensuring that children of all abilities feel represented and valued.
The company recently announced the launch of its new Barbie doll, which represents a person with Down syndrome. The move is part of Mattel's 2023 Fashionistas line, which aims to increase diversity and inclusivity among its toys.
The National Down Syndrome Society collaborated with Mattel to ensure the doll accurately represents a person with Down syndrome.
Down Syndrome Barbie is here! pic.twitter.com/GsUjEdUAw5
¡ª ? Josh Lekach ? (@JoshLekach) April 25, 2023
The new Barbie doll, designed in collaboration with NDSS, is dressed in the colors and symbols of the community. She wears matching ankle and foot orthotics and a three-chevron necklace, representing the three copies of the 21st chromosome associated with Down syndrome.
The doll represents "the lucky few" who have someone with Down syndrome in their life, said NDSS President and CEO Kandi Pickard.
The launch of this Barbie is a significant moment for the Down syndrome community, as it provides representation in the toy industry.
Barbie's official Instagram page shared a video of the new doll, which has already received over 12,000 likes and numerous positive comments.
Twitter/Mattel
Many individuals expressed gratitude for the representation of people with Down syndrome in the toy industry.
The first Barbie doll with Down syndrome has been unveiled.
¡ª The Associated Press (@AP) April 25, 2023
The release of the new design "continues to expand on inclusion in doll play," says Lisa McKnight, the global head of Barbie and Dolls for toy maker Mattel. pic.twitter.com/9KsNXlBfmD
Here is how the internet reacted:
Folks, they¡¯ve come out with a new Barbie doll, Down Syndrome Barbie, a whole line of them. This is cool! ?
¡ª Steph59Renee - Those Bastard Repubs! (@AngelRe96386095) April 26, 2023
Mattel releasing a Barbie with Down Syndrome is the best thing I¡¯ve seen all year!!??
¡ª PM? (@mynameispaigex) April 26, 2023
Barbie making dolls w Down Syndrome now ?
¡ª unbreakable. (@nae4press) April 26, 2023
Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal condition diagnosed in the US, affecting about 6,000 babies yearly. In recent years, Mattel has increased inclusivity in its toys, introducing dolls with disabilities and skin conditions.
Twitter
Lisa McKnight, executive vice president and global head of Barbie and Dolls at Mattel, said in a statement that the company is proud to introduce a Barbie doll with Down syndrome to reflect the world around us better and celebrate inclusion through play.
(With AP inputs)
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