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Cousins!

Activist Ida B. Wells used her voice to report the lynching against Black men in the south. Being one of the early leaders of the civil rights movement, it is only right Mattel pays tribute to the life and legacy of the journalist!

As reported by ABC News, the toy company plans to release their latest Inspiring Women series honoring Wells on Jan. 17. The doll design is around the aesthetic of Wells’ traditional style.

She will be featured in a vintage-style floor-length black dress with a white lace trimming collar. While holding a mini replica Memphis Free Speech newspaper, where she was editor and co-owner, the doll will be wearing a textured updo hairstyle.

The great great-granddaughter of Wells, author and public historian Michelle Duster, says in a statement that she felt ‘honored’ Barbie has chosen to celebrate Wells in this way.

“My great-grandmother was a trailblazer, who courageously followed her convictions and challenged the status quo, by fighting for civil rights and women’s suffrage,” Duster said. “This is an incredible opportunity to shine a light on her truth and enduring legacy to empower a new generation to speak up for what they believe in.”

#Barbie honors Ida B. Wells in the Inspiring Women series, spotlighting heroes who inspire us to dream big. Born into slavery, she was a journalist, activist & suffragist, telling the stories of injustices that Black people faced in her lifetime. At major retailers by 1/17. pic.twitter.com/hyXUqi3wpK

— Barbie (@Barbie) January 11, 2022

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Besides her work in journalism uncovering racism in the south, Wells also played a role in bringing awareness to women’s suffrage and civil injustices. She co-founded and performed as a contributor for organizations such as the National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs (NACWC) in 1896. And the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in 1909.

Fox news reports the Wells doll will be sold for $29.99 and shall be available starting on Monday, Jan. 17 at major retailers including Amazon, Walmart, and Target.

From the looks of the doll, Barbie did a great job! Wish they did this while we were growing up because we would have adored having this. Representation matters and it’s exciting to witness Ida B. Wells being honored in this way.