Civil Rights legend Ida B. Wells has been turned into a new Barbie doll, making her the latest historical figure to join the ranks of Mattel’s “Inspiring Women” collection.
The official Barbie Instagram started off a post with a quote from Wells in celebration of her Barbie addition to the collection.
“The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them,” the post started.
The tribute continued, “#Barbie is proud to honor the incredible Ida B. Wells as the newest role model in our Inspiring Women series, dedicated to spotlighting heroes who paved the way for generations of girls to dream big and make a difference. Born into slavery, Ida grew to become a journalist, activist, and suffragist – bringing light to the stories of injustice that Black people faced in her lifetime, and co-founding several organizations including the NAACP. When kids learn about heroes like Ida B. Wells, they don’t just imagine a better future – they know they have the power to make it come true. Available at major retailers by January 17th.”
Mattel also said in a statement that, “When kids learn about heroes like Ida B. Wells, they don’t just imagine a better future ― they know they have the power to make it come true.”
Wells is not the only Black historical figure that has now been immortalized as a Barbie doll for generations to come. Other Barbie dolls in the collection have included Maya Angelou, Florence Nightingale, Eleanor Roosevelt, Rosa Parks, Billie Jean King and Ella Fitzgerald.
So, just what are Barbie fans saying about the company’s latest addition to the Barbie family?
One Instagram user wrote, “This is so cool!!! Way to innovate the Brand we ALL love #Barbie.”
Another wrote, “she looks stunning and i love the scene you have created for her pictures.”
One educator has a special spot for the new Barbie doll…her classroom. “Can’t wait to add her to my history classroom collection!”
The new Ida doll will be available nationwide at Amazon, Walmart, and Target on January 17th!
