Barbie continues to expand its inclusion efforts by introducing the first blind doll and a Black doll with Down syndrome. Mattel said that the dolls are a part of the 2024 Fashionistas Line.
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The toy company collaborated with the American Foundation for the Blind to ensure that the blind Barbie accurately depicted individuals with blindness or low vision while maintaining accessibility. According to CBS News, the doll included tactile elements such as a satiny pink blouse and a textured ruffle skirt. It also comes with accessible packaging that includes “Barbie” in braille. The doll’s eye gaze is slightly up and out, reflecting the distinct eye movement often seen in individuals with blindness. Barbie’s accessories include a white-and-red cane with a marshmallow tip. Mattel also introduced a Black Barbie with Down syndrome. This follows last year’s introduction with the first Barbie doll with Down syndrome, created in partnership with the National Down Syndrome Society.
“We recognize that Barbie is much more than just a doll; she represents self-expression and can create a sense of belonging, We proudly introduce a new blind Barbie doll and Black doll with Down syndrome to our Barbie Fashionistas line, reinforcing our commitment to creating products that represent global belonging and inclusivity in the doll aisle,” Krista Berger, Senior Vice President of Barbie and Global Head of Dolls, stated in a press release.
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The Black Barbie’s design was developed with input from a focus group of Black individuals with Down syndrome. The doll features a rounder face, smaller ears, a flat nasal bridge, and a shorter frame with a longer torso—characteristics associated with Down syndrome. Additionally, the doll has a braided hair texture, a key feature requested by the community.
She also wears pink eyeglasses, representing the vision difficulties often experienced by individuals with Down syndrome . Her dress is blue to represent Down syndrome awareness, and a heart pattern with arrows represents the third 21st chromosome characteristic of Down syndrome.
Over the years, Barbie has ensured to represent inclusivity and diversity within its collection. This includes Barbie and Kens with mobility aids such as leg braces and wheelchairs, hearing aids, vitiligo and hair loss.
