New Barbie honors journalist Ida B. Wells

Updated: 10:51 PM EST Jan 11, 2022

Ida B. Wells, the famed Black journalist who worked to expose the horrors of lynching, has now been immortalized by Barbie.The latest addition to Barbie's "Inspiring Women" series, the Wells doll features the journalist in an 1800s-style high neck black dress, with her hair piled atop her head."When kids learn about heroes like Ida B. Wells, they don't just imagine a better future — they know they have the power to make it come true," Barbie said in an Instagram post. The doll is set to be available at major retailers by Jan. 17.Wells was born into slavery in 1862 was actively involved in exposing racism in the U.S., writing about race and politics in the South. She owned the newspaper The Memphis Free Speech and Headlight and was a vocal critic of segregated schools. Later, she became active in the anti-lynching campaign in 1892 after multiple friends were lynched, according to the National Parks Service, even visiting the White House to advocate for reforms.

Ida B. Wells was a journalist, feminist, activist, and defender of civil rights

She spoke out against the injustice of lynchings of African Americans

Updated: 11:43 AM EDT Mar 18, 2021

March is all about celebrating womanhood, and throughout the month we'll be honoring influential women in history whose inspirational stories helped pave the way for female empowerment and progress. These advocates and pioneers have contributed incredible things to not only women's history, but to the history of the United States as a whole, and are an inspiration to young girls everywhere.Discover the life and accomplishments of Ida B. Wells, an African American woman born a slave who used her talents in journalism and activism to stand up for the rights of women and African Americans.