By: Ethan Ding

The inclusive world of Barbie is growing once again as it introduces a blind Barbie Doll on July 23 with a cane representing people around the world who are blind.

Mattel, the company that makes Barbie Dolls, worked very closely with the American Foundation for the Blind to create a doll that blind people can play with. The clothes have special textures that blind people can feel and even have the word “Barbie” on the packaging in Braille.
“As we wrap up Disability Pride Month, we believe this is an excellent way to make children worldwide feel included, regardless of their abilities,” Tony Stephens of the AFB told CBS News.
The doll was tested among children with blindness and low eyesight to “ensure that it provides an accessible and satisfying play experience for kids with blindness or low vision,” the company said in a press release.

“The 2024 Fashionistas dolls aim to advance Barbie’s continued goal of reflecting a multi-dimensional view of beauty and fashion, allowing more children to see their world reflected through play.” The Oregonian said.

Broadcaster and disability activist from Birmingham, Lucy Edwards, campaigns to raise awareness of blindness and sight loss.

Edwardslost her eyesight when she was 17 and says a blind Barbie “means everything” to her.

“As a teenager, I felt isolated by losing my eyesight and not seeing role models like me. I was embarrassed by my cane- but knowing Barbie had a cane would have made me feel so differently about mine and helped me feel less alone on my journey to accept and embrace my blindness,” Edwards said.

Barbie is more than just a doll, she represents self-expression and a sense of belonging.

*Microsoft Start
https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/other/mattel-introduces-first-blind-barbie-new-barbie-with-down-syndrome/ar-BB1qv0Pw

*Oregonian
https://www.oregonlive.com/entertainment/2024/07/mattel-introduces-the-first-blind-barbie-doll-and-black-barbie-doll-with-down-syndrome.html