BARBIE GOES INCLUSIVE
Introduction:
In class, try to define the words DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
Key question:
How has the iconic doll evolved to embrace diversity in American society?
Barbie celebrated her 65th birthday on March 9, 2024, and her appeal has remained strong since her debut. Every year, 58 million of these dolls are sold in over 150 countries. In total, more than one billion Barbie dolls have been sold since her introduction at the New York Toy Fair on March 9, 1959.
Whether we like it or not, this societal phenomenon raises questions, and it will be interesting to see how this doll reflects the evolution of American society in terms of inclusion and diversity.
Barbie turns 65: Exploring a journey of diversity and inclusivity
Barbie, the iconic doll, celebrates her 65th anniversary with a remarkable evolution towards diversity and inclusivity. Originally modelled after a Eurocentric beauty ideal, Barbie now comes in ...
“Yes, the original Barbie is a stereotype — but children also create their own Barbie worlds”.
Explain this statement. Do you agree or not with it? Discuss.
The History of the Barbie Doll
Mission 3: Reading Comprehension
How can Barbie Dolls create a culture of acceptance?
In the collective imagination, disability does not belong to the magical world of childhood; it instills fear, and people don't talk to children about it. Yet, disability affects everyone, including children. These children, therefore, feel excluded from the world of childhood as they are not represented by the heroes in cartoons, animated films, or toys.
How has the world of Barbie dolls addressed this issue?
How does the brand incorporate this matter into its necessary evolution to best meet the needs and aspirations of society?
Wheelchair Barbie - the doll I've been waiting my entire life for | CNN
Melissa Blake writes that as a woman with a disability, she spent much of her childhood wishing for a Barbie that reflected her lived experience, and she is so grateful the next generation of ...
https://edition.cnn.com/2019/02/18/opinions/wheelchair-barbie-long-overdue-blake/index.html
N°3: Extra listening at home
First Barbie Doll with hearing aids
N°4: Extra listening at home
First Barbie Doll with Down Syndrome
N°5: Extra reading at home
First Barbie Doll with skin condition
'Inclusive Barbies are a major step in my life'
For the first time, new dolls feature a hearing aid, prosthetic limb, wheelchair and skin condition.
PART 1: Watch the video and discover this project.
Be ready to discuss about it in class.
PART 2: Going further
a) Read an article about the Dream Gap project
b) Watch the video about Adwoa Aboah, the latest ambassador for Barbie's Dream Gap Project
Recap what you have understood in class
c) Learn more about "GURLS TALK"
Discovering Barbie Inspiring Women Series
Since 2015, Barbie has been on a mission to honor diverse role models, both modern-day and historical, who break boundaries in their fields to inspire the next generation of girls.
Barbie is shining a light on female role models because every girl is allowed to imagine she can be anything and that she can make a difference.
Learn more about Frida Kahlo
Time for you to celebrate an Inspirational Woman
Select a woman who inspires you (from the past or the present) and make a 2-minute oral presentation of this person. Record yourself in a video.
HELP BOX:
https://www.biography.com/history-culture/g43336252/famous-women-in-history
https://www.womenshistory.org/students-and-educators/biographies
https://www.bobbooks.co.uk/blog/10-of-the-most-influential-women-of-the-21st-century
https://march8.com/articles/top-10-inspirational-women-from-the-past-present-and-future
https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/42872803