Netflix debuted ‘Black Barbie: A Documentary’ on Juneteenth, shedding light on the creation of the first black Barbie doll and its impact on representation. The documentary features insights from prominent figures like Isis Mckenzie-Johnson, former Miss Black California, who passionately discussed the significance of seeing herself represented through black Barbie dolls.
Arleana Waller, founder of the ShePower Leadership Academy, emphasized the documentary’s portrayal of progress made by black women while underscoring the ongoing efforts towards achieving equality. ShePower Leadership Academy, known for empowering young women of color, highlighted the pivotal role dolls play in fostering empowerment and inspiring success from a young age.
Mckenzie-Johnson emotionally shared her personal journey with the dolls, expressing how they opened up possibilities for her and reflecting on the importance of diverse representation in media and toys.
“When we talk about defining beauty, Barbie has always been at the forefront,” noted Waller, underscoring Barbie’s role in shaping cultural norms and advocating for broader representation. She stressed the responsibility to pave the way for future generations of black women.
While the original Barbie doll debuted in 1959, it took over two decades for Mattel to introduce black and Hispanic versions, marking a significant but overdue step towards inclusivity. Despite strides, Mckenzie-Johnson highlighted the need for continued efforts to enhance representation across various media platforms.
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