This video is a parody advertisement from a 2014 episode of Saturday Night Live, a late-night sketch comedy show. The skit showcases the new “Asian-American Doll,” and it plays with the idea of corporations taking caution with diversity. The ad shows three little girls playing with the doll—which is in the style of a Barbie doll—with a voiceover. In an effort to avoid controversy, this doll was created without a specific name or country of origin, with an empty house, and with no specific strengths or talents.

discussion

Describe the Asian American doll. What specific elements stick out to you?

In the video, who is playing with and talking about the dolls? (consider gender/race/age)  Do you think the qualities and names given to the Asian American doll would change based on who is playing with it?

What do you think is the ultimate message of this SNL skit?

Do you think products and toys made today represent America’s diversity? Should corporations make their products more inclusive? If so, how?