Chris Lange, FISM News
In the ongoing battle for the souls of America’s youth, San Diego-based children’s toy manufacturer Mattel has just released a transgender doll as part of its Barbie Tribute Collection in a targeted push to promote transgender ideology among kids.
With a price tag of $40, the doll is modeled after transgender actor Laverne Cox, a biological male who identifies as female.
In an announcement touting the doll’s release, Mattel described Cox as “a four-time Emmy-nominated actress, Emmy-winning producer, and the first transgender woman of color to have a leading role on a scripted TV show.” The company praised Cox for “us[ing] her voice to amplify the message of moving beyond societal expectations to live more authentically.” The doll features a glamorous red gown, flowing hair with blonde highlights, and makeup that “completes her look.”
Laverne Cox makes history as she becomes the first trans Barbie doll. The doll will be apart of Mattel’s Tribute Collection which honors trailblazing women. pic.twitter.com/IK2URMMf8A
— Pop Base (@PopBase) May 25, 2022
What excites me most about her being out in the world is that trans young people can see her and maybe get to purchase her and play with her, and know that there’s a Barbie made by Mattel, for the first time, in the likeness of a trans person,” Cox told People Magazine.
“[I]n this environment where trans kids are being attacked … this can also be a celebration of transness, and also a space for them to dream, understand and be reminded that trans is beautiful,” Cox continued.
Mattel said the actor played a significant role in the doll’s design.
In a statement provided to People, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Barbie and Dolls at Mattel Lisa McKnight said that the company is “proud to highlight the importance of inclusion and acceptance at every age and to recognize Laverne’s significant impact on culture with a Tribute Collection Barbie.”
The news prompted a flurry of comments on social media, most in support of the doll. Still, several users blasted Mattel’s decision to use its iconic Barbie doll to push transgender ideology on young children.
“So Fisher Price are making drag Queen toys for age 1+ and now Mattel are making a “trans barbie” doll for age 3+ They really are after the children now,” one user wrote.
“Trans Barbie doll? How did we get here?” lamented another.
The doll’s release also sparked praise among a number of Twitter subscribers.
“So happy for Laverne and trans women that see themselves in this Barbie and feel represented,” stated one user.
Another said Mattel shouldn’t stop with a trans Barbie, writing “We got a trans barbie next we want a trans gi joe.”