Barbie has decided to pay homage to Madam C.J. Walker, a philanthropist, activist, and self-made millionaire.
Walker’s doll is a part of Barbie’s Inspiring Women Series, which was “created to honor courageous women throughout history who continue to impact future generations,” as The Root reports.
Other women who were honored with a likeness of themselves were Dr. Maya Angelou, Rosa Parks, Ida B. Wells, and Ella Fitzgerald. Lisa McKnight, Executive Vice Presiden and Global Head of Barbie & Dolls, Mattel released a statement about the honor.
“As a pioneer in entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and activism, creating the blueprint for the self-made American businesswoman and innovators of the twentieth century, Madam C.J. Walker is an embodiment of our Barbie Inspiring Women series,” McKnight said.
She continued, “We’re honored to welcome her into this group of trailblazing women and introduce more kids to her journey of becoming one of the nation’s first widely successful female founders.”
Madam C.J. Walker was born Sarah Breedlove and came up with her own scalp conditioning treatment after she lost most of her hair after suffering from a scalp condition. She sold products door to door in the South before opening up her business in Indianapolis.
Walker’s great-great-granddaughter, A’Leila Bundles, worked closely with Barbie to make sure that the likeness was the right representation of Walker. “It was a joy to work with Barbie on the design and creation of an Inspiring Women doll made in the likeness of my great-great-grandmother,” Bundles said.
“Their design team graciously welcomed me throughout all steps of the process- from hair development to packaging- to capture and celebrate the legacy of this trailblazing Black businesswoman. I can’t wait for a new generation to be inspired by her story and to tell their own stories through a role model who came before them.”
The doll will be available at local retailers such as Walmart, Target, and Amazon and will sell for $35.