In recognition of Bessie Coleman’s birthday on January 26 and the upcoming start of Black History Month, Barbie formally announced the release of its Bessie Coleman doll on Wednesday as part of its “Inspiring Women” series.
Bessie Coleman was the first Black and Native American female pilote, and her accomplishments paved the way for other pilots of color to obtain their wings.
“Keeping Bessie’s legacy alive has always been a labor of love for my family, and we are proud to recognize her determination and accomplishments for Black women in aviation and continue to share my great aunt’s pioneering spirit with fans of all ages,” said Gigi Coleman, Bessie Coleman’s great-niece, said in a statement.
Barbie will also collaborate with Girls Write Now and Bessie Coleman Aviation All-Stars, two nonprofit organizations that educate students and introduce them to careers in aviation, which were both founded by Gigi Coleman.
Coleman, born in 1892 to sharecroppers in Texas, first developed an interest in aviation while residing in Chicago.
Coleman was refused admission to aviation schools in the United States due to her race and gender, but she persisted despite this.
Coleman ventured abroad, picking up French and relocating to Paris to enroll in aviation school. She obtained her pilot’s license in 1921, making history as the first Black woman to do so, and began performing aerial stunts back in the states.
However, her professional life was cut short. Her plane, which was being piloted by her mechanic, overturned during a practice for a May Day celebration in Jacksonville, Florida.
34-year-old Coleman plummeted to her death because she was not wearing a seatbelt.
“We hope through this doll more people will discover Bessie’s story and be inspired,” Gigi Coleman said.
Author-Roberta Appiah
