My parents were adamant about raising two Black girls who knew their history and culture. We were constantly surrounded by images to reinforce how beautiful we were. I am telling my age but in 1972, the Baby Chrissy Doll came out. She was the one that you could change her hair from long to short but pulling a string in her back. My mom could not find a Black one anywhere in our area. She put my grandmother on the case, who THANKFUL found one somewhere in Richmond, VA just in time for Christmas. I still have that doll today for so many reason: 1) My grandma got it for us and 2) knowing the story behind finding a Black one that looked like us.
When I saw the news that Mattel added new Barbie’s to their successful line, I was so excited. Makes me think of collecting a few. They now have 4 body types (original, curvy, tall and petite – for the shorties like me), 7 skin tones, 22 eye colors and 24 hairstyles. Does adding new shapes and sizes solve the world issue of racism and body image? No. I see this as a start for this new generation of young girls being raised by social media, reality tv and other untruths they will be led to believe.
I am not a parent so I will never profess what a parent should say to their child. I believe that parenting is the hardest job on the planet. I really mean that in a good way. I commend every parent I know. None of us can know if parents of children of color share with them how great they are or give them the best encouragement. We would like to think so. But what if for those who just don’t know how to start the conversation, they gave a young girl a doll that she could identify with. Maybe some things are not always put into words. Yes, I know the new Barbie’s are a part of the “fashionista” line. Please remember Barbie has had many occupations over the years too (picture below: Medical doctor and Eye doctor)
This brings me to women. We need to remember that it not about trying to fit into what society says we should be. If we are not a certain size, we are considered obese. It is okay to be your best, healthy self without having to starve (or drastically change your diet) or alter your outer appearance in some drastic way. If you were not born with green eyes, your brown ones are still lovely. We are beautiful in our different hair textures and styles, our shapes, etc. What if every morning we looked in the mirror and said, “I love myself!” I mean really say it but really mean it too! What a difference that would make for us, the women we come in contact with both personally and professionally and all young girls who are secretly studying our every move.
This is reminding me that we are all a part of bigger community not just our small circle. A light bulb has suddenly gone off as I am writing this. I am super excited. Info coming soon.
shespeaking.com 