A collection of multicultural Barbie dolls recently launched by Mattel have prompted a debate over cultural stereotypes in an attempt to appeal to a “new, more diverse generation of doll enthusiasts,” a report from FOX News Latino says.
The Dolls of the World collection features Barbie dolls wearing styles from across the globe. Several dolls from the newest collection are inspired by Latin American culture.
Mexican Barbie, which according the report has sparked the most debate, is described on the Barbie collector website as having “new Hispanic” facial features and an “LA tan.” The doll also dons a ruffled pink dress, a pink passport, and sports a “Chihuahua friend” under her arm.
Sara Rosales, a spokesperson for Mattel, said the dolls are a way for children to play and learn about different cultures at the same time.
“The Barbie brand understands the significance of introducing new cultures to girls in a relatable way,” she said.
Rosales also said the collection features fashion that is native to each culture in a way that celebrates its traditions and diversity.
Dolls dressed in traditional styles from Spain, Chile, Argentina, Brazil and Mexico have made some advocates question why more contemporary styles were not included.
Felix Sanchez, chairman and co-founder of the National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts, called the looks “very dated” and said they “seem to have been created for a different time.”
(Photo by Freddycat1)
