Mattel introduces first Barbie with Down syndrome

WASHINGTON — Toy firm Mattel revealed its first Barbie doll representing an individual with Down syndrome on Tuesday.

Mattel collaborated with the National Down Syndrome Society to create the Barbie and “ensure the doll accurately represents a person with Down syndrome,” the corporate stated.

Design options of the brand new Barbie have been made underneath steering from NDSS, Mattel stated. In addition to portraying some bodily traits of an individual with Down syndrome, the Barbie’s clothes and niknaks carry particular which means.

The blue and yellow on the doll’s costume, accompanied by butterflies, signify symbols and colours related to Down syndrome consciousness. And the three chevrons on the Barbie’s necklace signify how individuals with Down syndrome have three copies of their twenty first chromosome, Mattel stated.

In addition, the Barbie wears ankle foot orthotics, which some kids with Down syndrome use.

“This means so much for our community, who for the first time, can play with a Barbie doll that looks like them,” NDSS President and CEO Kandi Pickard stated in a press release. “This Barbie serves as a reminder that we should never underestimate the power of representation.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Down syndrome is the “most common chromosomal condition” identified within the U.S. at this time. About 6,000 infants are born throughout the nation annually with Down syndrome, the CDC stated.

Barbie’s new doll representing an individual with Down syndrome is a part of Mattel’s 2023 Fashionistas line, which is geared toward rising variety and inclusivity. Previous dolls which have been launched to the Fashionistas line embody a Ken doll with a prosthetic leg, a Barbie with listening to aids and dolls with a pores and skin situation known as vitiligo.