The world is finally becoming a more inclusive place, and Mattel has joined a number of companies that are embracing people with different disabilities.
California, United States (15 February 2019) – Mattel have joined the fight to break the stigma of disabilities by launching two new Barbie Dolls in their Fashionista 2019 line who are differently-abled.
The two new barbies include one who makes use of a wheelchair and the other fitted with a prosthetic leg. They have created a great show of diversity and inclusivity through the new line.
Mattel collaborated with 13-year-old disability activist Jordan Reeves for the project. She was born without a left forearm and is an advocate for people who are different in the eyes of society. She believes that every person is born just right and that should be what is considered normal.
“As a brand, we can elevate the conversation around physical disabilities by including them into our fashion doll line to further showcase a multi-dimensional view of beauty and fashion,” – Mattel
Jordan helped them design the Barbie with the prosthetic limb saying it should be removable to make the playtime more realistic. The company also teamed up with the UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital and wheelchair experts to design a wheelchair, which the company said has been one of the most requested accessories from Barbie fans.
“While there are many types of wheelchairs, this chair is modeled after one that is designed for an individual who has a permanent physical disability,”
Barbie’s dream house will also be given an update to include a wheelchair ramp. Not only have Mattel joined the inclusivity fight, earlier this week we shared a story that emojis would be more inclusive of mixed race couples and various disabilities.
Sources: iol / CNN
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