Representation Matters

HERSTORY DOLLS

I can remember watching The Clark Doll Test that was done in the 1940s by psychologists Kenneth and Mamie Clark which illustrates the ill effects of stereotyping and racial segregation in America. It also illustrated the damage caused by systematic segregation and racism on children’s self-perception at the young ages of three to seven. The test was done decades later showing much of the same results. I was overcome with emotion in watching little black and white children choose which dolls were good and pretty and which dolls were bad and ugly. I was moved to do something proactive about it. George Orwell wrote “He who controls the past controls the future” effectively creating history. Being a person of African descent, being an artist of different genres, being a mother, and being a person in our society today, I know that representation and diversity matter for children on television, in movies and especially with toy dolls. Our world is full of beautiful diversity, and so should be our children’s dolls and toys that they use for imaginative play and role playing. The effects of the lack of these things in

all elements of society become embedded in their psyche and subsequently show in their self-esteem and social development. I am about making major changes to deconstruct that and build up something positive. Well, this is Herstory Doll. I’ve chosen to not give a name or backstory to my dolls because I want the identity and story of each doll to come from the little girls around the world holding them. The journal that accompanies every doll will serve as a notebook for creative writing, sketching, and designing, and will foster creativity. It will also connect them back to the website of Herstory Doll, which will be an interactive hub for girls to share their works, stories, and talents. This has become a major part of my life and I have researched, created, and invested in bringing a high quality articulated doll into existence. Now, for me to reach the next step of getting it to girls around the world, I will need help. When you contribute to the Herstory Doll Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign, not only can you secure a first-run doll for yourself or loved ones, but you can help in ensuring that these dolls are available to boost esteem in girls everywhere. Please join me as we create Herstory!!

HERSTORY DOLL INDIEGOGO FUNDING CAMPAIGN:

Herstory Doll Indiegogo Campaign

Facebook:
Herstory Doll Facebook
Queen Dollylama Facebook

Instagram:
@herstorydoll
@thequeendollylama

Share post

Tags

• diversity
• Dolls
• Hamilton
• HamOnt
• Queen Cee
• Self Esteem
• Social Development
• toys