The Barbie family is growing after the launch of the first doll with Down syndrome.
On its official page, toy company Mattel says it has partnered with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) to design a doll that celebrates this community.
The new doll features meaningful symbols throughout her outfit that represent this community, such as butterflies, and the colors blue and yellow.
“Our goal is to empower all children to see themselves in Barbie, while encouraging children to play with dolls that are unlike them,” said Lisa McKnight, executive vice president and global head of Barbie & Dolls, Mattel.
Mattel said it worked with NDSS to ensure the doll was a representation of its community through real-world experiences to address the design from start to finish, including sculpting, clothing, accessories and l packaging of the doll.
Singer Celia Cruz and writer Julia Alvarez.
“This Barbie reminds us to never underestimate the power of representation. It’s a huge step forward for inclusion and a moment we celebrate,” said Kandi Pickard, President and CEO of NDSS .
Barbie wears a pink necklace that has three arrows to represent the third chromosome 21 that people with Down syndrome have, and they point outward to represent ascension and advancement.
The doll sculpt features a new face and body shape to better portray women with Down syndrome, including a shorter frame and longer torso.
The palms of the wrists even include a single line, a feature often associated with people with Down syndrome.1
The Barbie Fashionistas line already has more than 170 dolls. The newest features different body types, skin tones, eyes, hair, and hairstyles.