Toy company Mattel recently released a Barbie doll in honor of Wilma Mankiller, the first female principal chief of the Cherokee Nation and a renowned activist. The Wilma Mankiller Barbie is part of Mattel's “Inspiring Women” series, which celebrates influential women throughout history. The doll quickly sold out online, and there is currently a backorder due to high demand. The release of the doll was commemorated in an event on the Cherokee Nation, where Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. praised Mankiller for being a champion for the Cherokee Nation and an inspiration for young girls. However, despite the excitement surrounding the tribute, some Cherokee people have expressed mixed feelings about the Wilma Mankiller Barbie. They believe that there was a missed opportunity to accurately represent Mankiller's heritage and cultural significance. For example, the doll's woven basket does not showcase a traditional Cherokee pattern, and it lacks Mankiller's signature jewelry. Julie Reed, an associate professor of Native American and American history at Penn State University and a Cherokee citizen, suggests that Mattel could have collaborated with Cherokee basket weavers and included more specific features that were unique to Mankiller. While Mattel claims to have worked with Mankiller's estate on the design, they did not collaborate with the Cherokee Nation or Mankiller's only surviving daughter, Felicia Olaya. Some critics argue that involving more of Mankiller's family and the Cherokee Nation could have added depth and authenticity to the doll. Additionally, Mattel has faced criticism for a typo on the packaging, where the Cherokee Nation seal reads “Chicken Nation” instead of "Cherokee Nation." Cherokee language symbols on the packaging are also incorrect. Despite these concerns, many Cherokee people are celebrating the tribute to Mankiller and her accomplishments. Mankiller, who served as principal chief from 1985 to 1995, focused on improving social conditions and restoring pride in Native heritage. She received numerous accolades throughout her lifetime, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The Wilma Mankiller Barbie is seen as a way to honor her legacy and inspire future generations. Though the doll may not fully capture Mankiller's power and connection to her community, it serves as a meaningful recognition of her contributions. People like Traci Sorell, a Cherokee citizen and children's author, appreciate the tribute and see the doll as an opportunity to commemorate a childhood role model. Despite its imperfections, Sorell purchased the doll for herself as a way to mark the occasion.