Representation shaped with an advocacy organisation
NDSS president and chief executive Kandi Pickard called it "a huge step forward for inclusion". The doll wore ankle-foot orthoses, modelled on examples supplied by NDSS. Its necklace and clothing included symbols associated with the Down syndrome community. The launch made disability representation part of a widely distributed toy range. [1]
Black community members review a later design
On 23 July 2024, Mattel announced a Black Barbie doll with Down syndrome. NDSS organised a focus group of Black people from the Down syndrome community, including a young woman, to examine the sculpt, hair, clothing and glasses. Their involvement extended beyond endorsing a finished product. [2]
Blindness also becomes visible in play
The same month, Mattel introduced a blind Barbie developed with the American Foundation for the Blind. The organisation's professional services team helped shape features including a white cane and tactile accessories. Its account describes work on arm movement for cane use and accessible marketing materials, connecting representation with practical design decisions.