Barbie unveils first blind doll with ‘authentic’ cane and tactile clothing
THE first blind Barbie has been unveiled, complete with a white and red cane, sunglasses and tangible clothing.
Makers Mattel were advised by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) to ensure the doll’s design was ‘authentic’.
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According to the charity, her up-and-out eyes reflect “the sometimes distinct gaze of a blind person” and the stick has a recognisable marshmallow tip.
Broadcaster Lucy Edwards gave her approval for the doll, whose packaging reads “Barbie” in Braille.
Lucy, 28, BBC Radio 1’s first blind presenter, said: “Seeing the world’s most famous doll introducing a blind Barbie makes me feel so seen. It means everything to me.”
Lucy, who lost her sight at the age of 17 due to a rare genetic disorder, added: “I was embarrassed about my cane, but if I’d known Barbie had a cane I would have felt very differently.
“It would have helped me feel less alone on my journey to accept and embrace my blindness.”
Debbie Miller from the RNIB said: “It’s wonderful to think that children with visual impairment can now play with a Barbie that looks like them.
“It is an acknowledgement that not everyone can see well, which means a lot to the blind and partially sighted community.
“This is a positive step in helping children and adults with visual impairments feel included and recognised.
“We are so happy with the details.”
The doll, which features “elbow joints for comfortable cane use,” is the latest addition to Barbie Fashionistas, a series that includes a black Barbie with Down syndrome.
A spokesperson said the dolls “can create a sense of connection”.
