Why Addy Matters: Reflections from the Black Dolls Symposium
AUTHOR: Blake Changnon and Janine B. Napierkowski
In February 2025, The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures in Kansas City held its very first Black Dolls Symposium. The event was created to celebrate and learn about the history and meaning of Black dolls. One special part of the symposium featured a conversation between author Connie Porter, American Girl collector and museum founder Blake Changnon, and museum educator Janine Napierkowski. They came together to talk about Addy Walker, the first Black doll made by Pleasant Company in 1993.
Connie, who wrote Addy’s books, spoke with Blake, who has one of the largest American Girl collections around. Janine helped guide the conversation. They talked about how Addy was created, why she matters, and how she still teaches children today. Connie explained that when she was first asked to write for American Girl, she didn’t know much about it. But after meeting the team, seeing a prototype of the doll, and reading some of the books, she decided to take on the project.
Connie shared how much research went into Addy’s story. She worked closely with a group of historians who helped her learn what life was like for Black families during the 1800s. This helped her write an honest and powerful story about a girl escaping slavery. She also wanted Addy to look real and worked with Pleasant Company to ensure they gave Addy natural hair, pierced ears, and facial features that celebrated Black beauty.
Blake shared what Addy meant to him and others who grew up with her. He created a virtual museum exhibit in 2023 to celebrate Addy’s 30th anniversary. His online collection shows her books, the dolls, clothes, and many other items related to Addy. He talked about how Addy wasn’t just a doll, she helped many children understand hard parts of history in a way they could connect with.
Attendees listening to the talk were especially touched by Connie’s stories about meeting young readers. She remembered going to schools and seeing long lines of kids waiting to meet her. She got letters from readers who told her how much Addy meant to them. Connie said she felt proud to give Addy a voice, especially for all the people in history who never got to share their stories.
The session ended with a talk about what Addy means today. Grown-ups who loved her as children are now reading her stories again, and they are seeing how deep and important her stories really are. And for younger children, Addy is still helping them learn about America’s past in a way that feels real and personal.
The Black Dolls Symposium was a perfect place for this special conversation. Connie, Blake, and Janine reminded everyone that Addy’s story still matters. By sharing her journey, they’re helping keep her memory alive for many more years to come.