Barbie's New Doll with Type 1 Diabetes Shows the Power of Representation

Mattel has recently introduced their very first Barbie doll with Type 1 diabetes (T1D).

“Barbie helps shape children’s early perceptions of the world, and by reflecting medical conditions like T1D, we ensure more kids can see themselves in the stories they imagine and the dolls they love,” Krista Berger, Senior VP for Barbie said, in a press release.

The doll has a continuous glucose monitor attached to her arm, an insulin pump attached to her waist, and a purse for her to carry T1D supplies or snacks when she’s on the move.

Growing up with a disability often means never seeing yourself reflected in the films, TV shows or toys that you love. Disabled people are significantly underrepresented in the media, and when they are portrayed, it's often negatively stereotyped, not represented appropriately, and without input or consultation from the disability community.

That’s what makes Barbie’s commitment to inclusivity and representation so meaningful. Mattel partnered with Breakthrough T1D, the leading global Type 1 diabetes advocacy organisation to create the doll and together, they worked closely to accurately reflect the medical equipment used by people with T1D and the doll’s whole look.

The new doll means that more children will be able to see themselves reflected in the toys that they love. Although the journey towards better representation of disabled people is far from over, this definitely marks a step in the right direction.