(New York) The toymaker Mattel launched Tuesday a new model of Barbie doll carrying trisomy 21, with some of the physical traits associated with this genetic anomaly, in partnership with a recognized American association.
“Our goal is to connect all children with Barbie, but also to encourage them to play with dolls that are not like them,” Lisa McKnight, Barbie brand manager, said in a statement.
Designed in collaboration with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), an organization dedicated to people with Down syndrome, this new version of the Barbie series is available online and will go on sale in stores this summer.
The doll is smaller than the average Barbie, has a longer torso in relation to the rest of her body, smaller ears, a flat nose bridge and almond-shaped eyes, characteristics commonly seen in people with Down syndrome.
Trisomy 21, also called Down syndrome, is a congenital chromosomal condition that results from the presence of an extra chromosome at the 21st pair (out of 23 in total).
In addition to the physical traits, it generates a generally mild to moderate intellectual disability.
After having proposed, for decades and with a few exceptions, a white and blonde Barbie, Mattel has multiplied, in recent years, the openings to diversify the profile of the famous doll.
At the beginning of 2016, the Californian company had notably launched “round”, “small” and “large” versions of Barbie. Mattel now claims 175 different Barbie models.
Revenue for Mattel’s doll division fell 9% in 2022, primarily due to slower sales of Barbie and the American Girl and Spirit lines.
