The makers of Barbie unveiled their latest business venture with a hijab-wearing Barbie doll to honor the Muslim American woman who competed in the 2016 Olympics wearing a hijab.
Mattel (MAT) announced the news on Monday at Glamour’s Women of the Year summit that the company is adding the veil-clad Barbie to a “Shero” collection as a tribute to the Olympic fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad, according to CNNMoney.
“I’m proud to know that little girls everywhere can now play with a Barbie who chooses to wear hijab! This is a childhood dream come true,” Muhammad — who became the first American to compete for the United States in the games wearing a hijab in 2016 — tweeted Monday in applause of the company’s new product.
“Ibtihaj is an inspiration to countless girls who never saw themselves represented, and by honoring her story, we hope this doll reminds them that they can be and do anything,” Barbie global marketing VP, Sejal Shah Miller, said in a statement CNN reported.
The move comes after Mattel introduced three body types this year for its Ken dolls — slim, broad, or original — and seven skin tones, and nine hairstyles including the man bun in an effort to reach a more diverse audience. (Related: Ken Doll Revamped As Fast, Sports Man Bun).
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Mattel sales decreased almost 10 percent over the summer even after launching new body positive Barbie dolls last year.
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