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Barbie unveils 1st blind doll and Black doll with Down syndrome
Barbie has unveiled their newest Blind Barbie Doll and Black Barbie Doll with Down syndrome as part of its fashionista collection in recognition of July as Disability Pride Month.
null - Barbie has unveiled their newest Blind Barbie Doll and Black Barbie Doll with Down syndrome as part of its fashionista collection. This, as the country recognizes July as Disability Pride Month.
Both dolls will be available for purchase beginning July 23.
Blind Barbie
Blind Barbie with white cane. CREDIT: Mattel/Barbie
In a continued effort to ensure their dolls represent the world’s kids, Barbie has introduced its first ever blind doll.
In a partnership with the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), the newest doll will include accessories such as a white and red cane with an identifiable marshmallow tip, sunglasses, textured and vibrant fabric colors and there will be braille writing on the packaging to help blind and low-vision individuals open the box more easily, according to Barbie.
The doll was designed with an eye gaze "facing slightly up and out to accurately reflect the sometimes-distinct eye gaze of a blind individual."
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"It was an honor to collaborate with Barbie on the development of the Blind Barbie 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," said Eric Bridges, CEO and president of American Foundation for the Blind.
Blind Barbie will retail at $10.99.
Black Barbie with Down syndrome
Black Barbie with Down syndrome. CREDIT: Mattel/Barbie
In addition to Blind Barbie, Black Barbie with Down syndrome was unveiled on Tuesday.
Just as it was counseled back in 2023 with the introduction of its first-ever Down syndrome doll, Barbie once again consulted with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) to create its newest addition.
"NDSS is thrilled to introduce a second Barbie doll with Down syndrome. Having this doll launched alongside the new Barbie doll with Blindness marks another important step in expanding representation for the disability community," said Kandi Pickard, President and CEO, NDSS. "We are proud to partner with Barbie as they grow to reflect our diverse and beautiful world," said NDSS President & CEO Kandi Pickard.
The newest doll will come with a braided hair texture, pink eyeglasses and clothes with meaningful symbols to represent Down syndrome awareness.
Black Barbie with Down syndrome will retail for $10.99.
This story was reported from Los Angeles.