When I first found out that Mattel’s new Barbie doll was modeled after medal-winning Olympic fencer and hijabi Ibtihaj Muhammad, I felt ecstatic and proud. It was like the world came into perfect harmony as the toy industry made this historic accomplishment in recognizing Muslim women and their abilities.

Muhammad’s doll was revealed Nov. 13 at  ‘Glamour’s Women of the Year Awards’ in Brooklyn, New York, where Muhammad herself was there for its unveiling. During the historic unveiling, she mentioned how this doll was a “perfect hijab moment right here,” according to Glamour.

Even though the doll was honored after her accomplishments and dedication as a female Muslim hijabi athlete, I felt as though I was sharing that same victory Muhammad did. For once, all of the people who might not know as much about the background of Muslim females are able to start recognizing the true characters and values through something as familiar as the iconic Barbie doll. 

According to Barbie, this doll is a part of their ‘Sheroes’ collection that honors inspirational women who break boundaries and stereotypes. Mattel’s mission statement mentions how their focus is to teach young girls they are able to attain anything they dream of accomplishing.

Looking at the hijab’s originality within the new doll proved a dream come true for me, especially since the doll’s ultimate unveiling immediately brought back great memories from my childhood where I used to pretend my Barbie dolls wore hijabs. This was my way of expressing Barbie to be just as beautiful in a hijab as she was in her blonde hair.

I knew Mattel tended to limit their characteristics on style in the past, and a doll that looked like the majority made me feel isolated. From the viewpoint of being part of a minority in this country, the stereotype of beauty as being blonde and thin felt even more noticeable to me, which didn’t make sense because I had observed girls with other colors of hair and women wearing hijabs looking really beautiful as well at the time.

Barbie’s new hijabi doll does a great job at introducing the multicultural experience through toys in a modern world. I believe these upcoming sales will help improve toy market images in terms of how they now portray beauty on multiple levels through these dolls. I am now beaming with joy on how hijabis are being honored for who they really are — strong and liberated.