Sofia Sanchez said she felt like she “became” Barbie because of her handmade gown.
At the Barbie world premiere in Los Angeles on Sunday night, actress, model, and activist Sofia Sanchez channeled Mattel’s first-ever Barbie with Down syndrome.
The 14-year-old dressed up for the occasion in a clone of the flowered frock worn by the doll. The suit, according to Mattel, “features butterflies and yellow and blue colors, which are symbols and colors associated with Down syndrome awareness.”
Sanchez stated in a comment on an Instagram photo that gave followers a “behind the seams peek at the hand painted custom” gown from Doloris Petunia that she felt like she “became” Barbie because of the garment.
She had the opportunity to meet several celebrities at the event, including Margot Robbie. She scribbled, “Pinch me,” next to a picture of the two of them.
Sanchez, who is known for her viral video “Down Syndrome Is Not Scary” and who has a part in the upcoming Hunger Games prequel The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, previously appeared with the doll on Good Morning America and stated in a TikTok that it “made her so happy.”
At the time, she posted on social media, “It’s me and my new Barbie…who happens to rock an extra chromosome like me!”
In a news release, they stated, “The Barbie doll with Down syndrome is meant to inspire all children to tell more stories through play.”
A pink pendant necklace with three upward chevrons, which Mattel claimed represented the three copies of the 21st chromosome—the genetic material responsible for the traits linked with Down syndrome—is also part of the doll’s clothing. The three chevrons, or arrows, are a sign that connects the Down syndrome community and are intended to symbolize “the fortunate few” who have a loved one with Down syndrome.
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The statement was made by Lisa McKnight, executive vice president and global head of Barbie & Dolls at Mattel. “As the most diverse doll line on the market, Barbie plays an important role in a child’s early experiences, and we are dedicated to doing our part to counter social stigma through play,” she added.
McKnight continued, “We are proud to introduce a Barbie doll with Down syndrome to better reflect the world around us and to further our commitment to celebrating inclusion through play.”
