Mattel launches first blind Barbie
Introduced by Mattel in 1959, Barbie has been a favourite toy for millions of children around the world. It remains popular even today, with a variety of body types, skin colours and other features that better represent the world’s diverse population. The maker of the iconic doll has now taken a remarkable step towards inclusivity by launching its first blind Barbie doll, which is packaged in Braille. The packaging has the word ‘Barbie’ written in Braille.
Mattel has carefully designed it in collaboration with the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), and has worked closely on every aspect of the doll, from its appearance to its packaging, to authentically represent individuals with blindness or low vision. The doll is equipped with a red and white cane, functional sunglasses, and a distinctive look that reflects the traits of many blind individuals.
The doll is dressed in a pink satin T-shirt and a purple tulle skirt, making it easy to dress and take off. The top has loop fasteners at the back and the skirt has an elastic waistband. The doll’s manufacturer has carefully tested the doll with children with low vision to ensure a suitable design for them to have an enjoyable play experience.
Lucy Edwards, a broadcaster and disability activist who lost her sight at the age of 17, was invited to promote the new doll. Speaking to the BBC, Edwards said, “I felt embarrassed by my cane, but seeing Barbie with a cane would have made me feel differently about my cane and made me feel less alone in accepting and embracing my blindness.”
Debbie Miller of the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RBIB) praised this Barbie depicting visually impaired children
Mattel created this doll in partnership with RNIB, an organization representing blind people. Mattel faced criticism over the unrealistic proportions of its dolls and was found to be perpetuating conventional beauty standards. Barbie doll sales saw a decline and hence it started producing a diverse range of Barbies in 2016.
Along with the introduction of the first blind doll in the Barbie Fashionistas 2024 series, it has reestablished its relationship with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) and unveiled a new model called Black Barbie with Down Syndrome.
first published: July 25th 2024 | 6:06 pm First
