Why Black Dolls Matter

Have you ever walked into a toy store and noticed how hard it can be to find a black doll? Or how, even when you do, there are far fewer options than dolls with lighter skin tones? 

Don’t think it’s a small oversight—it reflects a bigger issue. Representation matters, and it starts early.

Why does it matter if a child plays with a black doll? Does race really have that big of an impact on playtime? Absolutely. Representation is important in shaping a child’s self-esteem and worldview.

Growing up, finding dolls that looked like me wasn't easy. That's partly why I became passionate about creating black dolls that celebrate our beauty and heritage. But more than that, I wanted them to serve as a reminder to my kids, and all kids, that they are worthy of seeing themselves in the things they play with.

As a mother of black children, I’m proud of my dolls with beautiful outfits that celebrate the beauty and diversity of Black culture.

A doll is often a child's first best friend. They form a special bond with their doll, playing pretend, mimicking real-life roles, and learning life lessons. 

For Black children, having a doll that reflects their skin tone, hair texture, and facial features is also a way to affirm their identity. It’s a constant reminder that they are beautiful just as they are.

For too long, mainstream dolls have reflected a very narrow idea of what is beautiful. Black dolls challenge that by embracing the natural beauty of Black features.

This isn't just my opinion – history and research back this up. 

Remember the famous "doll tests" from the 1940s? Psychologists Kenneth and Mamie Clark showed black children dolls of different skin colors and asked which they preferred. Most children chose the white doll and described it more positively. The researchers concluded that segregation made African-American children feel inferior, harming their self-esteem.

While recent versions of these tests show some improvement, they still reveal concerning patterns – many children continue to associate positive traits with lighter skin tones.

When a Black child holds a doll that looks like them, with similar features and hair texture, it sends a powerful message: "You are beautiful. You matter." 

It helps to build their self-esteem and confidence. It allows them to see themselves as heroes, princesses, or adventurers in their imaginary worlds.

This is especially good for Black children who may not always see themselves portrayed positively in the media or popular culture. The reality is, that dolls play a big role in shaping how a child views themselves and their place in the world.

As  Debbie Behan Garrett, author of "Black Dolls: A Comprehensive Guide to Celebrating, Collecting, and Experiencing the Passion," explains: "When a young child is playing with a doll, she is mimicking being a mother... I want that child to understand that there's nothing wrong with being black."

It’s not just Black children who benefit from having Black dolls in their lives. Every child, regardless of race, should have the opportunity to play with dolls that reflect different ethnicities. 

Dolls of various shades and backgrounds help normalize diversity and promote empathy, acceptance, and understanding at an early age.

For white children, playing with Black dolls helps break down biases and fosters an understanding that differences are not something to fear, but something to celebrate. When children of all backgrounds are exposed to dolls that represent a broad spectrum of ethnicities, they learn that everyone has value, no matter their skin color.

Black dolls also provide an incredible opportunity for conversations about race, privilege, and equality. They’re a perfect starting point to teach children about acceptance, inclusivity, and the importance of standing up against racism. 

When children play with black dolls, it helps normalize the reality that humans come in different colors and appearances. This creates brain and heart connections that we're all in this together. 

A white child won't see a black person as something unfamiliar. A light-skinned child won't hesitate to bond with a dark-skinned child. This is how difference becomes normal.

A toy as simple as a doll can create meaningful discussions about what it means to be a friend, to be kind, and to embrace our differences.

Black dolls matter because representation matters. They help children see themselves and others in a positive light. They build self-esteem, foster empathy, and normalize diversity. And they remind us that beauty comes in all shades, shapes, and sizes.

So the next time you’re shopping for a toy, consider choosing a black doll. It’s a statement. A statement that says, “You are beautiful. You belong. You matter.”

What do you think? Do you agree that black dolls are important for all children? What experiences have you had with diverse dolls in your family? 

Did it make any difference in your child’s life? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences!