© Hijarbie
Brilio.net/en - Barbie keeps getting more and more politically appropriate. From changing waist sizes in the last weeks, to her new look as Hijarbie, the 20th century doll has finally been welcomed into the diverse 21st century.
Last month, Mattel showcased Barbie with a variety of skin tones, height and waist lines. But that wasnt enough for just everyone. Haneefa Adam, a Nigerian medical student has taken to Instagam and introduced the world to Hijarbie.
Barbie is no longer featured rocking her hotpants and crop tops, but is more modestly covered in couture gowns and even a a headscarf, known as a hijab.
Speaking toCNN, Ms Adam said: I thought I had not seen Barbie dressed in a hijab before so I decided to open an Instagram account and dressed Barbie up in the clothes that I made. I thought it was really important for a doll to be dressed like how I would be.
The doll offers Muslim girls and women around the world a role model, which is exactly what the 24-year old pharmacology student wanted to accomplish.
The young student had to special order the dolls from overseas, as they are not readily available in her native Nigeria.
While many people supported her creative outlet, the Internet of course had to offer its own opinions on the dolls. Islamaphobia was rampant as comments implied that Muslim women were oppressed. But Adam handled it with grace. She noted: "People think that when Muslim women cover up they are forced to. (The) majority of us are not She continued: We want to cover up and express our religion. But a lot of Muslims don't cover their hair and it doesn't make them any less of a Muslim.
Change is slow to come about, but Adam has found a creative way. By allowing children to be exposed to a variety of toys, perceptions can me changed from an early age on. Having a doll that looks like you, that represents you, is key for Muslim girls and women. But its just as important for women who arent Muslim. While not a Barbie, this mom did wonders for her childrens development when she gifted her two (white) daughters black dolls. Their reaction was priceless. Check the video!
(brl/tis)
