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Home · News

Mattel Launches Black, Disabled Barbie To Rave Reviews

Barbie's newest doll is Black, in a wheelchair, and rocking her natural hair. Of course, the Internet can't get enough.
Mattel Launches Black, Disabled Barbie To Rave Reviews
Mattel
By Tanya A. Christian · Updated October 23, 2020

Mattel recently launched a Black Barbie in a wheelchair and the Internet can’t get enough. The well-known doll company outfitted the new social media sensation in acid wash jeans, a striped cut-out shoulder top, and wait for it… natural hair.

An announcement about the doll first came in February during the 2019 New York Toy Fair. The company introduced her as part of the Fashionistas line. She serves as further proof that Mattel is truly looking to be more inclusive with their doll offerings. Though Barbie is 60-years-old this year, this marks the first time a Black Barbie in a wheelchair has made its way to the market.

In an age where many minority communities are screaming “Representation matters!” it’s not surprising that social media is praising Mattel’s decision. One Twitter user wrote, “There isn’t merely a Barbie in a wheelchair. THERE IS A BLACK BARBIE IN A WHEELCHAIR. I REPEAT, SIS IS BLACK!!!!”

There isn’t merely a Barbie in a wheelchair.

THERE IS A BLACK BARBIE IN A WHEELCHAIR.

I REPEAT, SIS IS BLACK!!!! 💃🏾💃🏾💃🏾💃🏾💃🏾 https://t.co/I9FcGdG1UV

— Crutches THEE Spice ♿️ (@Imani_Barbarin) June 28, 2019

Many others shared in her excitement, while also pointing out that her wheelchair is modern and the ramp that comes along with it fits perfectly with Mattel’s Barbie dream house.

A Black, visibly disabled Barbie, with natural hair!?

AND HER WHEELCHAIR ISNT A UGLY HOSPITAL CHAIR!

We love representation! https://t.co/Cp7Z3Qal7d

— Nerdy PoC (@NerdyPoC) June 28, 2019

Though the doll that retails for $19.99 at Target is a first, Mattel has made celebrated efforts in the past to recognize the diversity of its customers. In 2018 a hijab-wearing Barbie modeled after  Olympic fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad made its way to market. In 2015, an Ava DuVernay doll, outfitted in locks and a director’s chair sold out within minutes. 

TOPICS:  Barbie Black Barbie disabled Mattel Representation wheelchair
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