Black dolls........

There is a lot of history about black dolls. Most of which has not been very flattering. From the golliwog look to the barbie like dolls. There was even an era when all the black dolls were in positions of servitude- butlers, maids.
These dolls speak English and are dressed in princess like ball gowns. These characteristics aren't bad  in and of themselves.Its just that when all black kids see are white dolls, then it makes them aspire to be those white dolls. That becomes their standard for beauty and that leads to low self esteem.

So I was happy to hear about the new black dolls on the market, by Africans .These dolls have African back stories, are dressed in African looking clothes and importantly speak African languages.

Rooti dolls by Chris and Ada Ngoforo

Queen of Africa dolls depicting the 3 major tribes in Nigeria.

For more info - Talking Dolls Challenge Racial Stereotypes