With the world becoming more inclusive and more brands advocating for LGBT+ rights, we are seeing a shift in how they do things.
The popular toy brand Barbie, which launched about 175+ dolls as part of its diversity and inclusion drive, has added another doll to the collection.
American actress and LGBT advocate Laverne Cox has made history as she becomes the first transgender Barbie doll.
The news broke this week, a few days before she turns 50 on Sunday.
Laverne Cox makes history as she becomes the first trans Barbie doll. The doll will be apart of Mattel’s Tribute Collection which honors trailblazing women. pic.twitter.com/IK2URMMf8A
Speaking to international media, she said that the whole thing feels surreal.
“I can’t wait for fans to find my doll on shelves and have the opportunity to add a Barbie doll modelled after a transgender person to their collection,” she said.
The “Orange Is The New Black” star was very involved in the creation of the doll, which has multiple outfits to unleash the fashionista in her.
“Transgender Barbie is in effect. She’s giving you looks. She’s giving you everything. She gives you a catsuit fantasy, honey,” she told E! News.
The doll is part of Mattel’s Tribute Collection, which honours trailblazing women. Earlier this month, the brand also launched new dolls with hearing aids and vitiligo.
“We are committed to continuing to introduce dolls featuring a range of skin tones, body types, and disabilities, to reflect the diversity kids see in the world around them. Kids need to see themselves reflected in products and must be encouraged to play with dolls that don’t resemble them to help them understand and celebrate the importance of inclusion,” said Lisa McKnight, the executive vice-president and global head of Barbie and Dolls.