The first Barbie doll with Down syndrome created in collaboration with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) to ensure an accurate representation, has already sold out online. Mattel, the American toy company known for manufacturing the iconic Barbie doll, announced the release on April 25th.

Over the years, Mattel diversified its Barbie line to feature dolls representing different races, ethnicities, sizes, and body types, with the latest addition featuring a new face and body sculpt to more accurately represent someone with Down syndrome.

The doll's yellow- and blue-colored dress is patterned with symbols and colors associated with Down syndrome awareness, and it wears a pink pendant necklace with three upward chevrons, representing the three copies of the 21st chromosome. The new Barbie also wears pink ankle foot orthotics (AFOs), as some children with Down syndrome wear AFOs to support their feet and ankles.

Lisa McKnight, executive vice president and global head of Barbie and Dolls at Mattel, stated that Barbie plays an important role in a child's early experiences, and the company is dedicated to counter social stigma through play. The goal is to enable all children to see themselves in Barbie while also encouraging them to play with dolls that do not look like themselves, leading to a more accepting world.

Erin Thielman, a Down syndrome advocate and mother of three, expressed gratitude for the new doll as her youngest son has Down syndrome. She emphasized that there is a lack of representation for the Down syndrome community in dolls and toys and that this new doll is monumental because it inspires confidence and representation. Thielman's daughter Abby, who previously reached out to Mattel requesting a doll with Down syndrome, was also thrilled with the new Barbie and noted that disability should be thought of as a different ability.

Thielman is hopeful that the new doll will bring attention to the sad reality that nearly 70% of babies diagnosed with Down syndrome in the womb are aborted in the United States. She believes that children with Down syndrome are intentional blessings from God and suggested that Mattel create a Ken doll with Down syndrome to befriend the new Barbie.