Yahoo Lifestyle Fans Praise 'Absolutely Beautiful' New Barbies Being Launched: 'Representation Matters'
Barbie is releasing a few new dolls, and fans are applauding the brand's commitment to inclusion and empathy.
The toy company revealed in an Instagram post on Tuesday, July 23 that it's bringing forth its "first Blind Barbie Fashionista doll," which is "developed to authentically represent blind and low vision individuals 💗," according to the post's caption.
It further explained that the release is in partnership with the American Foundation for the Blind, an organization that aims to expand possibilities for people with vision loss.
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A photo of the new Barbie, which features a glamorous pink top and purple tulle skirt outfit, along with sunglasses and a walking aid.
"This doll features an upward and outward eye gaze, sunglasses, and a cane with a marshmallow tip," the social media upload's note continued to detail. "Textured fabrics enhance the sensory experience, making fashion elements more accessible with easy-to-open Braille packaging, and elbow articulation for comfortable cane use, facilitating accessibility to show that we are all Barbie. #Barbie."
Fans poured into the comment section to express elation and support for the upcoming toy drop.
"I love you barbie. representation is so important, thank you 🤍," one gratefully wrote, while another added, "SHES [sic] BEAUTIFUL!! I cannot wait to get her!!"
"Awe! Thank you SO much for doing this! We really love how you're representing the blind and visually impaired community! ❤️," a third chimed in, as a fourth agreed, "My inner child is soooo happy. Thank you for this!!"
"Absolutely beautiful!! Thank you. I also love your first mental health professional Barbie — Art Therapist Barbie, as someone who is going into the field 🎨♥️" someone else commended the brand.
In a separate Instagram post by the brand, they shared more photos of their line of inclusive dolls.
"Inclusion and empathy are at the heart of better play ❤," the caption read, along with the announcement that additionally, they're creating the "first Black Barbie with Down syndrome" in partnership with the National Down Syndrome Society.
"With Barbie Fashionista dolls, we strive to ensure all kids feel represented and can play out the world they experience around them," the company reiterated.
"Every single child and and all of us needs to feel special! Representation, inclusivity matters. We matter! These children matter and needs to see themselves in these beautiful dolls who represents them. The world needs more of this and sooooo honoured to be witnessing this!!!" one fan of the release commented excitedly.
