The Wilma Mankiller doll is the newest addition to Mattel’s Barbie Inspiring Women Series. The series features dolls inspired by influential women throughout history.
The new Barbie doll resembles Wilma Mankiller, the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. She was an advocate for social justice and a social worker dedicated to empowering indigenous communities. Mankiller worked hard in hopes that future generations could benefit from her dedication. She also earned the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1998.
As Principal Chief, she advocated for improved healthcare and housing services, and revitalized the Nation’s tribal government. During her 10-year leadership, educational achievement rose, infant mortality declined, and the population more than doubled in the Cherokee Nation.
The photo that inspired the doll's look. | Source: Mattel
The box provides information on Wilma Mankiller. | Source: Mattel
The doll was designed to accurately reflect Wilma Mankiller. | Source: Mattel
The doll is wearing a turquoise dress with several colorful ribbon stripes and carries a woven basket. The stripes represent the four directions: North, East, South, and West.
“When Native girls see it, they can achieve it, and Wilma Mankiller has shown countless young women to be fearless and speak up for Indigenous and human rights,” says Chuck Hoskin Jr., Cherokee Nation Principal Chief. “She not only served in a role dominated by men during a time that tribal nations were suppressed, but she led. Wilma Mankiller is a champion for the Cherokee Nation, for Indian Country, and even my own daughter. She truly exemplifies leadership, culture, and equality and we applaud Mattel for commemorating her in the Barbie Inspiring Women Series.”
Her family and friends, as well as the Cherokee Nation, provided input on the doll’s design so it accurately reflects the former Principal Chief, and it is inspired by an image of her taken in 2005. The design team received feedback throughout the entire design process.
“I am deeply honored Mattel is recognizing Wilma with the Wilma Mankiller doll. Wilma inspired me and many others to make the world a better place. As her community development partner for over 30 years, we shared a passion for empowering Indian communities and educating future generations,” says Charlie Soap, Mankiller’s husband. “The Wilma Mankiller Barbie doll is an incredible tribute to Wilma that will share her legacy with even more people.”
Barbie will also contribute $25,000 to The American Indian Resources Center in honor of Mankiller’s dedication to Native American and women’s rights. The organization supports initiatives dedicated to empowering indigenous women and fostering cultural and educational opportunities within the Native American community.
“Wilma’s impact on women’s rights and her strength to break down barriers continues to be an inspiration for women and girls in Native communities throughout our world. Wilma always brought others to the table with her and she would be very happy that Mattel is including other indigenous dolls,” says Kristina Kiehl, close friend and Producer of Cherokee Word for Water. “Barbie celebrating her legacy with the Wilma Mankiller Inspiring Women doll continues to share her story with so many others for years to come.”
The doll is available for $35 on Amazon and Walmart and was released in time for Mankiller’s birthday on Nov. 18.
