We know that children often look up to the images they see in the media. That’s why it’s so important for all children of all backgrounds to be represented in movies, TV shows, and even advertisements.
Having positive role models who resemble children with disabilities can have a huge effect on their self-esteem.
There’s been a huge shift in the fashion and beauty industries to make them more inclusive and diverse.
It’s no secret that for decades, thin, white women were the primary models for these industries. Now, designers and brands are trying to ensure that more models that reflect the true composition of society are included.
Many mainstream brands have begun casting models with unique backgrounds.
Aerie is one company that has had models with down syndrome and in wheelchairs featured in their ads.
In the U.K., an independent bridal store made headlines when they included a mannequin in a wheelchair in their store window.
Online, people praised the store for representing brides who have mobility issues and use a wheelchair.
Now, a mom from Virginia has shared a touching post about the moment her daughter saw a model like her in a beauty ad.
Carolyn’s four-year-old daughter, Maren, has a rare disease and needs to use a wheelchair for mobility.
When the two were out shopping in Leesburg, Virginia, they came across this store window at Ulta Beauty.
“Well Ulta, you absolutely stopped my girl in her tracks this evening. It was mesmerizing to watch her stop, turn and gaze at this poster. So thank you,” Carolyn wrote in her Facebook post when she shared the photo.
The model in the photo is Steph Aiello, a beauty and fashion influencer who uses a wheelchair and has a huge online following.
Ulta Beauty shared this image of Steph reacting to her own photo on their Instagram account.
Since sharing the photo of her daughter, Carolyn’s post has gone viral with thousands of likes, comments and shares.
One Facebook user who uses a wheelchair shared the moment when she first saw a Barbie doll in a wheelchair and how important it was for her.
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Many commenters praised the company for this campaign.
The simple act of casting a model in a wheelchair can have a huge impact for girls like Maren.
Take a look at Carolyn’s full Facebook post below.
This is such a heartwarming story and hopefully we’ll see even more campaigns like this soon.
