Written by Rebecca Grace.
In a world where everything must be woke, inclusive, and, of course, absolutely tone-deaf, Mattel has done it again. Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, meet the new addition to the Barbie family: Sharia Barbie. Yes, this is not satire; it’s real. Mattel decided that 2024 was the perfect year to introduce a Barbie that perfectly encapsulates the principles of Sharia law – and let’s just say, it’s causing quite the stir.
The Revolutionary Design of Sharia Barbie
Gone are the days when Barbie could be anything – a doctor, an astronaut, or even President of the United States. Now, Barbie is breaking the last barrier: becoming the embodiment of strict religious law. Sharia Barbie comes equipped with a burqa that covers her head to toe, leaving only her eyes visible because, you know, modesty is key in her world.
But Mattel didn’t stop at just the burqa. No, that would have been too simple. Sharia Barbie also comes with optional accessories like bruises, which you can apply yourself to give her that authentic look. It’s not just about fashion anymore; it’s about making a statement, one bruise at a time. Want to add some realism? Don’t worry, Mattel thought of that too! The deluxe package even includes a tiny rock collection so she can be stoned whenever she dares to show an ankle.
Empowerment, but Make it Oppressive
Mattel’s marketing campaign proudly claims that Sharia Barbie is here to empower girls everywhere. Because nothing says empowerment like a doll whose entire identity revolves around subjugation, right? Imagine little girls around the world playing with Sharia Barbie, dreaming of the day they can be just like her – silent, covered, and waiting for the approval of a male guardian.
Of course, the irony is lost on no one. Except maybe Mattel, who seems to believe that they’re striking a blow for inclusivity. After all, why should Barbie only represent Western ideals of freedom and individuality? Why not throw in a doll that represents the joy of having your life choices dictated by a patriarchal society? It’s all about balance, apparently.
Mattel executives have defended Sharia Barbie as a move to diversify their lineup. “We want every girl to see herself in Barbie,” one spokesperson said. Well, mission accomplished, Mattel. Nothing quite says diversity like adding a doll that could be a poster child for human rights violations.
Controversy? What Controversy?
As you might expect, the release of Sharia Barbie has not been without its detractors. Critics argue that Mattel is trivializing the very real struggles of women living under oppressive regimes. But Mattel insists that they’re just trying to promote cultural awareness. Because, you know, what better way to raise awareness of gender oppression than by turning it into a plastic plaything for children?
Supporters of Sharia Barbie, though they seem few and far between, argue that the doll is simply a reflection of reality for many women around the world. If that’s the case, one has to wonder if Mattel’s next big idea is Barbie’s friend, “Victim of Honor Violence Ken.”
Of course, the doll is flying off the shelves in certain markets. Some parents are thrilled that their daughters can finally have a doll that represents the joys of enforced modesty and obedience. Meanwhile, Western consumers are scratching their heads, wondering if this is some kind of elaborate joke they aren’t in on.
Our Take
Mattel’s Sharia Barbie is a lesson in how not to do cultural representation. Instead of celebrating diversity, it seems to glorify some of the most restrictive aspects of one culture, turning oppression into a child’s plaything. By marketing a doll that comes complete with a burqa and bruises, Mattel sends the wrong message: that subjugation and repression are just another lifestyle choice to be celebrated.
While it’s important to acknowledge different cultures, packaging one of the darkest aspects of any society into a doll is hardly the way to do it. Sharia Barbie isn’t a tool for empowerment; it’s a stark reminder of the real struggles that women face under oppressive regimes. If this is the direction Mattel is headed, perhaps it’s time to reconsider what we’re teaching the next generation through their toys.
Mattel, this is not the kind of innovation the world needs. Here’s hoping Barbie’s next career involves something a little more inspiring, and a lot less tone-deaf.
