The University of Minnesota’s Eli Coleman Institute for Sexual and Gender Health is developing MyGender Dolls, a set of customizable dolls designed for children aged 4 to 10. The dolls feature removable and interchangeable genitalia and gender-neutral names like Sam, Rory, Avery, and Parker. The project, set to launch in 2026, is intended for use by clinicians and educators in clinical and educational settings. The dolls come with over 100 clothing, hair, and accessory options.
Funding and Support
The initiative is supported by Gov. Tim Walz (D-MN), who received the Eli Coleman Institute’s Distinguished Sexual and Gender Health Champion Award in 2023. The project was funded in part through the University of Minnesota’s Early Innovation Fund. The dolls were developed by faculty members Dianne Berg, PhD, and G. Nic Rider, PhD, from the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health. The project aims to help children explore gender identity and reduce shame related to societal messages about anatomy.
Opposing Perspectives
Critics, including Sen. Jim Abeler (R-MN), have raised concerns about the use of taxpayer funds for the project. Some argue that introducing such concepts to young children is inappropriate, while supporters emphasize the importance of providing gender-affirming resources for children who may be questioning their identity.