A Barbie with Down syndrome has been released by Mattel in a first for the iconic dolls company.
The new doll is part of the 2023 line of more diverse dolls from the brand, which aims to be more inclusive than ever.
The range features dolls with a wider range of skin tones, freckles, and different textures of hair.
It includes a Ken doll with a prosthetic leg as well as a wider range of body sizes among the Barbies.
Mattel said the new doll, which comes with a pretty blue and yellow butterfly print dress, has been created to be “more illustrative of a woman with Down syndrome.”
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This includes, it says, almond eyes and a longer torso. The doll also has another common characteristic of Down syndrome a line down the palm of the hands.
The doll wears a pink necklace with three arrows, which is meant to represent the three copies of the 21st chromosome, the cause of Down syndrome.
This chevron pattern is the symbol of The Lucky Few, representing those who live with Down syndrome.
Additionally, the doll has ankle foot orthotics, which are worn by some children to support their feet and ankles.
The company worked with UK model Ellie Goldstein, 21, to create the doll. She worked with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) in the US to create the doll.
Around 6,000 babies are born in the United States each year with Down Syndrome, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Lisa McKnight, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Barbie & Dolls, Mattel said: “As the most diverse doll line on the market, Barbie plays an important role in a child’s early experiences, and we are dedicated to doing our part to counter social stigma through play.”
“Our goal is to enable all children to see themselves in Barbie, while also encouraging children to play with dolls who do not look like themselves.”
NDSS President and CEO Kandi Pickard said the new doll serves as a reminder of the power of representation.
“It is a huge step forward for inclusion and a moment that we are celebrating,” she said.
