Mattel, the toy company behind the iconic Barbie doll, has announced a new addition to its diverse range of dolls: a Barbie with Down's syndrome. The doll, named Ella, is part of Mattel's Fashionistas line, which features dolls of different body types, skin tones, hair textures and abilities. Ella was created in collaboration with Jordan Reeves, a 16-year-old activist and founder of Born Just Right, a non-profit organization that empowers kids with disabilities to design their own solutions.
Ella has almond-shaped eyes, a slightly flattened nose and a small mouth, which are some of the common physical features of people with Down's syndrome. She also wears a pink dress with a floral pattern and a denim jacket and has long blonde hair. Mattel said that Ella was designed to celebrate the beauty and diversity of people with Down's syndrome and to inspire girls to pursue their dreams regardless of their abilities.
"Ella is a doll that shows girls they can be anything they want to be," said Lisa McKnight, senior vice president and global head of Barbie and Dolls at Mattel. "She represents the millions of people around the world who have Down's syndrome, and she is a role model for inclusivity and acceptance."
Jordan Reeves, who was born with a limb difference and uses a 3D-printed prosthetic arm, said that she was honoured to work with Mattel on creating Ella. She said that she wanted to make a doll that looked like her sister, who has Down's syndrome, and that she hoped Ella would help raise awareness and understanding of the condition.
"I think it's important for kids to see themselves in the toys they play with," Reeves said. "It helps them feel more confident and less alone. I also think it's important for kids to see people who are different from them because it teaches them empathy and respect. I hope Ella will show kids that Down's syndrome is not something to be afraid of or pity, but something to celebrate and embrace."