“When I saw the doll, I felt so emotional and proud,” Ellie wrote on Instagram, adding: “It means a lot to me that children will be able to play with the doll and learn that everyone is different. I am proud that Barbie chose me to show the dolls to the world. Diversity is important as people need to see more people like me out there in the world and not be hidden away,” Ellie continued. “Barbie will help make this happen.”
The new Barbie doll came about in collaboration with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) in the US, who advised on how to “accurately represent a person with Down’s syndrome” and “celebrate the Down’s syndrome community – through the Barbie’s clothing, accessories and packaging”.
The new Barbie will have “a rounder shape, smaller ears, and a flat nasal bridge, while the eyes are almond-shaped” said toymaker Mattel. “The doll’s palms even include a single line, a characteristic often associated with those with Down’s syndrome.”
“It was an honour working with Barbie on the Barbie doll with Down syndrome,” said Kandi Pickard, NDSS president and CEO. “This means so much for our community, who, for the first time, can play with a Barbie doll that looks like them. This Barbie serves as a reminder that we should never underestimate the power of representation. It is a huge step forward for inclusion and a moment that we are celebrating.”
The unveiling of the doll comes amid Barbie mania ahead of the release of Greta Gerwig’s forthcoming “biopic”, starring Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken. It also follows the release of British Vogue’s May issue, with its portfolio celebrating a new vanguard of Disabled talent. Ellie, who is one of the issue’s five cover stars, told Vogue how she feels about being a role model. “I feel lucky to be seen as a role model,” she said, “I want to show you can achieve anything if you really want to –never give up on your hopes, dreams and aspirations. My disability never stops me.”
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