toys
Mattel launches Barbie doll with Down Syndrome
Mattel has created a “Barbie” doll with Down Syndrome. photo
© Catherine Harbour/Mattel/PA Media/dpa
It’s a symbol of more inclusivity: a “Barbie” with Down syndrome. Manufacturer Mattel wants to counteract the social stigmatization through games.
The US toy company Mattel has launched a “Barbie” doll with Down syndrome for the first time. The doll, which features long tan hair, a pink necklace and a colorful floral dress, is designed to “allow more children to see themselves reflected in Barbie, and allow Barbie to reflect the world around them,” says Mattel.
The doll was created in close cooperation with associations of those affected and has, among other things, a slightly longer upper body and wears pink orthopedic aids on the lower legs and feet. In people with Down syndrome – also known as trisomy 21 – the chromosome 21 is usually present three times instead of twice. Down syndrome is associated with various degrees of disability.
In the past, Mattel had already launched Barbie dolls with wheelchairs, hearing aids or prostheses, among other things.