In June the iconic doll brand will debut a Barbie with a prosthetic leg and another in a wheelchair.
Barbie’s new looks will help combat the stigma surrounding physical disabilities.
CONVERSATION
The new dolls are part of the 2019 Barbie Fashionistas line which aims to offer children more diverse representations of beauty. The company hopes to elevate the conversation on disability with the dolls.
Makers of Barbie collaborated with 13-year-old disability activist Jordan Reeves, who was born without a left forearm, on the new line.
Barbie’s prosthetic limb can be removed for a more realistic play experience.
A collaboration was also made with wheelchair experts from UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital to design a wheelchair, one of the most requested accessories from Barbie fans.
The wheelchair Barbie will use is designed for an individual who has a permanent physical disability. A Barbie DreamHouse-compatible ramp will also be included.
EXCITEMENT
Disability rights activists and the wider disabled community has taken to social media to express their excitement over the announcement.
The new Barbie dolls will show children around the world, along with the more than one billion people with a disability, that there shouldn’t be a stigma surrounding disability.
Other dolls in the new line are also part of an effort by Barbie to incorporate more diversity.
Dolls with different skin colours, body shapes, hair colours and styles, eye colours and clothing will also be included in the collection.
The announcement comes two years after the first barbie to wear a hijab was introduced.
Will you be purchasing the new Barbies this June? Let us know on Twitter and Instagram.