A new Barbie doll with Down Syndrome will be introduced into the historic toyline.
Barbie manufacturer Mattel made the announcement Tuesday, saying they worked hand-in-hand with the National Down Syndrome Society to make sure representation was as accurate as possible.
The wardrobe for the doll includes a yellow and blue dress adorned in butterflies. Butterflies and the colors blue and yellow are connected with Down Syndrome awareness.
Other accessories include foot orthotics, special braces that many with Down Syndrome wear for added support, and a pendant featuring three chevrons, meant to symbolize the three copies of the 21st chromosome.
“This Barbie serves as a reminder that we should never underestimate the power of representation,” NDSS president and CEO Kandi Pickard wrote in a press release. “It is a huge step forward for inclusion and a moment that we are celebrating.”
About 6,000 babies with Down Syndrome are born each year, according to the CDC.
“Barbie has evolved significantly over the past several years as we’ve continued to increase our commitment to representation with a variety of diverse dolls,” Kim Culmone, senior vice president of Barbie and dolls design, said in a video announcement.
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