Barbie releases new doll in inclusivity bid

The world’s most iconic toy manufacturer has taken yet another step towards inclusivity with the introduction of its latest doll.

The world’s most iconic toy manufacturer has taken yet another step towards inclusivity with the introduction of its latest doll.

Toy maker brand Mattel Inc. announced it would be introducing its first blind Barbie doll ever on Tuesday.

The brand partnered with the American Foundation for the Blind to ensure that the doll accurately represented a young woman who is blind or has low vision.

Toy maker brand Mattel Inc. announced it would be introducing its first blind Barbie doll ever on Tuesday. Picture: Supplied

This is the reason the vision impaired Barbie comes with a white and red cane with a marshmallow tip and silver aviator sunglasses, as those who are blind are often sensitive to light.

The toy also comes with arms that make using the cane easy and was tested by children between the ages of five and nine who are blind in order to make sure the playing experience was good for everyone.

Other adjustments included textured and vibrant fabrics, as well as braille on the packaging.

Courtney McKee, a registered psychologist and manager of Vision Australia’s children and young people program for Queensland, said a diagnosis can often make young people feel like the world is shrinking.

“However, having a role model that looks like them or shares a similar diagnosis can inspire them and encourage them to go after their dreams, while also recreating a sense of belonging.

The doll was created in association with American Foundation for the Blind. Picture: Supplied

“Representation and diversity on the shelves are also great in starting conversations about disability more broadly,” Ms McKee said.

She added that having a Barbie with a white cane, which is often connected to people with vision issues, gets kids thinking about how those who are blind participate in society.

Eric Bridges, the CEO and president of the American Foundation for the Blind, said it was an honour to work on the doll.

“By increasing representation and promoting awareness about the experiences of blind individuals and those with low vision, our shared goal is to inspire boundless opportunities for everyone, ultimately leading to a world of greater accessibility and inclusion,” Mr Bridges said.

Last year, Barbie released it’s first doll with Down syndrome as part of the company’s 2023 Barbie Fashionistas collection.

The Fashionistas collection features Barbie and Ken dolls in a range of ethnicities, body and hair types, genders and physical abilities.

To create the doll with Down syndrome, the toy company worked alongside the US National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS).