A Barbie with Down syndrome has been launched by Mattel in a primary for the enduring dolls firm.
The brand new doll is a part of the 2023 line of extra numerous dolls from the model, which goals to be extra inclusive than ever.
The vary options dolls with a wider vary of pores and skin tones, freckles, and completely different textures of hair.
It features a Ken doll with a prosthetic leg in addition to a wider vary of physique sizes among the many Barbies.
Mattel mentioned the brand new doll, which comes with a reasonably blue and yellow butterfly print costume, has been created to be “extra illustrative of a girl with Down syndrome.”
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This contains, it says, almond eyes and an extended torso. The doll additionally has one other frequent attribute of Down syndrome a line down the palm of the palms.
The doll wears a pink necklace with three arrows, which is supposed to symbolize the three copies of the twenty first chromosome, the reason for Down syndrome.
This chevron sample is the image of The Fortunate Few, representing those that dwell with Down syndrome.
Moreover, the doll has ankle foot orthotics, that are worn by some youngsters to help their toes and ankles.
The corporate labored with UK mannequin Ellie Goldstein, 21, to create the doll. She labored with the Nationwide Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) within the US to create the doll.
Round 6,000 infants are born in the USA every year with Down Syndrome, in accordance with the U.S. Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention.
Lisa McKnight, Govt Vice President and World Head of Barbie & Dolls, Mattel mentioned: “As essentially the most numerous doll line in the marketplace, Barbie performs an essential position in a toddler’s early experiences, and we’re devoted to doing our half to counter social stigma by play.”
“Our purpose is to allow all youngsters to see themselves in Barbie, whereas additionally encouraging youngsters to play with dolls who don’t appear to be themselves.”
NDSS President and CEO Kandi Pickard mentioned the brand new doll serves as a reminder of the ability of illustration.
“It’s a enormous step ahead for inclusion and a second that we’re celebrating,” she mentioned.
