The first blind Barbie and a black Barbie with Down syndrome will be released this week. (Mattel)
A year after introducing its first doll with Down syndrome, Barbie will add another doll with the chromosomal disorder and will present a blind Barbie.
Mattel, which makes the dolls, said it is offering a Black Barbie with Down Syndrome In addition to his first Blind Barbie Starting this week.
The dolls are part of the Barbie Fashionistas line, a collection aimed at promoting inclusivity that offers more than 175 options with diverse skin tones, eye colors, hair colors and textures, body types, disabilities and fashions.
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“We recognize that Barbie is so much more than a doll; she represents self-expression and can create a sense of belonging,” said Krista Berger, Barbie senior vice president and global head of doll. “We are proud to introduce a new blind Barbie doll and a Black doll with Down syndrome to our Barbie Fashionistas line, reinforcing our commitment to creating products that represent global belonging and inclusion in the doll aisle.”
Blind Barbie can articulate her arms to comfortably use her red and white cane and has a distinctive look. She wears sunglasses to enhance light sensitivity and her clothing is designed to promote tactile interest and make outfit changes easy. Plus, the doll’s packaging features the word “Barbie” written in Braille.
The new black Barbie with Down syndrome has a shorter frame, a longer torso and low muscle tone. The doll’s face is rounder, with smaller ears, a flat nose bridge and slanted, almond-shaped eyes with white dots in the iris. There is also a single line on the doll’s palms and a braided texture to the hair.
Additionally, the black Barbie with Down syndrome wears pink glasses, as many people with the disorder have vision problems. The doll’s outfit is blue and yellow to symbolize Down syndrome awareness and includes hearts with three arrows, a nod to the three copies of chromosome 21 that are a hallmark of the condition.
Mattel said it worked with the American Foundation for the Blind and the National Down Syndrome Society to ensure accurate representation.
Blind Barbie and Black Barbie with Down syndrome will also appear in several episodes of the YouTube series “Barbie Doll Adventures” this fall, Mattel said.
The new dolls are available online and will arrive at major retailers this summer for $10.99 each.
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