American Girl is stepping up its game in 2017 by introducing two new dolls that celebrate diversity and unique stories. Meet Lila Chen and Keanu Aloha, who represent the Korean American and Native Hawaiian cultures, respectively. In a recent announcement, the beloved doll brand confirmed that they are listening to their fans, who have expressed a desire for more inclusive representation and a wider array of experiences.
Lila Chen: The Korean American Filmmaker
Lila Chen, the Korean American doll (shown on the left), is an imaginative filmmaker. Fans may recognize Lila from her appearances on American Girl’s YouTube channel, where she shares her love for filmmaking and offers tips on creating stop-motion videos. She is set to be available in Spring 2017, and she will also star in her very own live-action special on Amazon, marking a first for the brand.
Keanu Aloha: The Native Hawaiian Spirit
On the other hand, Keanu Aloha embodies the spirit of a Native Hawaiian girl growing up during the tumultuous times of World War II. Keanu Aloha, who lived through the Pearl Harbor attacks in 1941, will be a part of the BeForever collection, which features characters from various historical periods. Keanu is the first doll to sport shorts and showcases American Girl’s new face mold. She is expected to be available in Fall 2017.
Commitment to Diversity
This vibrant year for American Girl follows the recent introduction of the brand’s first-ever boy doll, Jasper Hale. The excitement was palpable when I was shopping at the Atlanta flagship store with my kids, and my daughter exclaimed, “I can play with a boy doll and a girl doll!” This new addition opens doors for children to explore playtime in fresh ways.
It’s evident that American Girl is committed to creating a more inclusive doll line. Representation matters, and when children see characters that reflect diverse backgrounds and interests, it inspires them to believe in their own potential. For more insights on home insemination and related topics, check out this post, as well as excellent resources like this one from Cleveland Clinic.
Conclusion
In summary, American Girl is making strides in diversity with the introduction of Lila Chen and Keanu Aloha, showcasing varied stories and experiences. With this approach, they’re fostering an environment where children can see themselves in the dolls they play with.