The Wilma Mankiller doll is the newest addition to the Barbie Inspiring Women series!
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. Wilma 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 Nations tribal government. During her 10-year leadership, educational achievement rose, infant mortality declined, and the population more than doubled in the Cherokee Nation.
The box provides information on Wilma Mankiller. | Source: Mattel
The doll was designed to accurately reflect Wilma Mankiller. | Source: Mattel
The doll has a turquoise dress with several colorful ribbon striping and carries a woven basket. The striping represents the four directions, North, East, South, and West. The doll has black shoes.
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. Barbie will also contribute $25,000 to The American Indian Resources Center in honor of Wilma Mankiller’s dedication to Native American and women’s rights.Â
An admirable public servant, the Wilma Mankiller-inspired doll is a great addition to the Barbie Inspiring Women series! You and your little one can celebrate Wilma Mankiller with the doll on her birthday, Nov. 18. The doll is available to purchase at the links below.
BARBIE INSPIRING WOMEN COLLECTIBLE DOLL — WILMA MANKILLER IN TURQUOISE DRESS
A new doll, inspired by former Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation Wilma Mankiller, joins the Barbie Inspiring Women series. The doll resembles Wilma Mankiller's likeness, carrying a woven basket and wearing a turquoise dress.
