Hi Barbie! Toy company Mattel has released the first blind Barbie (which comes with a cane with a marshmallow tip) during its 65th anniversary year. The latest Barbie doll announcement follows in a long line of inclusive dolls which have included a hearing loss Barbie, Down’s syndrome Barbie and Barbie in a wheelchair. It has features that allow accessible play for children with sight loss as well as representing a visually impaired woman.
The Barbie also has sunglasses, textured and vibrant fabrics, Velcro fastenings on clothing, and elbow articulations to ensure comfortable cane use. @purplegoatagency We 💜 @barbie @mattel #MarketingPodcast #InclusiveMarketing #Barbie #BarbieDolls #Disability #Deaf #Inclusion #RepresentationMatters #DisabledCommunity ♬ original sound - THE Inclusive Marketing Agency Additionally, the doll has been designed with an eye gaze facing slightly up and out to reflect the sometimes-distinct eye gaze of a blind individual. 'If Barbie can be blind that means I can be blind' says disability activist Lucy Edwards Blind broadcaster and disability activist Lucy Edwards was the first blind person in the UK to meet the new Barbie.
She said: “This to me is just another step in that journey that finally we are creating a world that is made for blind young people to thrive, and if Barbie can be blind that means I can be blind and that is so important for the confidence of young people today.” Ms Edwards, who lost the sight in her right eye at the ag.