Hey babes, for this weeks blog we will be looking at the portrayal of women by others, more specially, large corporations. Mattel recently announced the launch of their new barbie doll series called “Inspiring Women”. Barbie has created dolls based off of well-known historical figures such as Frida Kahlo and Amelia Earhart. The best best part about this collection is that it appeals to girls all around the world. Along with familiar American faces, Barbie is also releasing several international dolls. The new line was created in collaboration with Barbie’s “Shero” program. The line already has a great mix of dolls including model Ashley Graham.
Lisa McKnight the Senior Vice President put out this official statement about their decision to celebrate these role models;
“As a brand that inspires the limitless potential in girls, Barbie will be honouring its largest line up of role models timed to International Women’s Day because we know that you can’t be what you can’t see,” McKnight said. “Girls have always been able to play out different roles and careers with Barbie and we are thrilled to shine a light on real life role models to remind them that they can be anything.”
While Barbie’s intention wasn’t to cause any controversy, some individuals didn’t find the dolls as empowering as others. The second argument is the fact that these dolls do not look like the historical figures they are trying to portray. Specially the Frida Kahlo doll, her famous unibrow is barely seen on the doll and the fact that she’s standing upright. Frida spent a long time in a wheelchair due to her underdeveloped legs caused by spina bifida.
Although there are are two sides to the story, this has been Barbie’s most diverse collection yet.
Do you think Mattels intentions were to create awareness of women over time or are they merely another company trying to capitalize on international women’s day?
