Exploring the Legacy of Black Barbie: A Documentary Deep Dive
Entertainment | June 20, 2024, 10:05 a.m.
In Lagueria Davis' new documentary "Black Barbie: A Documentary," the untold story of the first Black Barbie doll and its impact on representation in the toy industry is revealed. The film explores the efforts of Beulah Mitchell, an employee at Mattel, to convince company founder Ruth Handler to create a Black Barbie doll in the early 1960s - a groundbreaking act at the time.
Featuring interviews with Black women who worked at Mattel and cultural icons like Shonda Rhimes and Misty Copeland, the documentary showcases the significance of Black Barbie in empowering young Black girls to see themselves reflected in the toys they play with. The film highlights the importance of representation and diversity in the toy industry and celebrates the legacy of Black Barbie as a symbol of beauty, empowerment, and inclusion.