By: Alyssa Wan

On July 23rd, a new Barbie doll called the “Blind Barbie” was released. They can now be found in stores everywhere. This new Barbie doll helps blind and people with low vision feel more represented and and confident.

Mattel is the company that makes Barbies. To make this Barbie, it worked with the American Foundation for the Blind and the Royal National Institute for Blind People in the UK.

“Blind Barbie” has several details that reflect a blind person. For example, its eyes are more outward, just like a blind person’s gaze, and it wears dark glasses and holds a cane. Also, this Barbie comes with textured clothes so that blind children or children with low vision can feel what the Barbie is wearing.
Krista Berger isthe senior vice president of Mattel.

“We recognize that Barbie is much more than just a doll; she represents self-expression and can create a sense of belonging,” Berger said.

In addition, Debbie Miller, the director of customer advice and support at the charity, shared with BBC how pleased he is with all the details that were put into the new Barbie doll.

“It’s an acknowledgment that not everyone can see well, which means a lot to the blind and partially sighted community. This is a positive step forward in helping children and adults with sight loss feel like they belong and are recognized,” Miller said.

Lucy Edwards, the first blind person in the UK to meet the new Blind Barbie, said this was very important for young people with sight loss.

“If I had this doll when I was younger, I would love to use my long white cane,” Edwards said.

Overall, this new “Blind Barbie” is an improvement for blind people and people with low vision.