American Girl Encourages Girls and Families to Join the Conversation on Climate Change

Brand unites young climate advocates who are speaking up for solutions and inspiring others to live an Earth-friendly life

American Girl, the beloved brand known for helping girls grow up with confidence and character, and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mattel (NASDAQ: MAT), today invites families to tune into part two of the brand’s Conversations for Change series, Use Your Outside Voice: Climate Change. The new episode highlights four female changemakers who are raising their voices—and awareness—about the climate crisis and taking a stand to help save the planet.

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American Girl's advice book, Love the Earth, teaches young readers the basics of climate change and how to live an Earth-friendly life. (Photo: Business Wire)

The virtual roundtable discussion features teen activists Haven Coleman, co-founder of US Youth Climate Strike and founder of Arid Agency; Iris Zhan, co-founder of Fridays For Future Digital and founder of local hub of the Sunrise Movement, and Genesis Butler, founder of Genesis for Animals and Youth Climate Save; along with American Girl author and former biochemist Erin Teagan. The group shares why it’s important to care about the climate movement, what they are doing to support it, and how to spread awareness and hope by focusing on solutions to create a more sustainable world.

“From the start, American Girl has given girls the tools to grow up with the kind of confidence and resilience that can help change the world,” says Jamie Cygielman, General Manager of American Girl. “In our second Conversations for Change episode, we’re proud to amplify the voices of these young female leaders who are speaking up for climate solutions and inspiring others to do the same. Their heartfelt stories prove that everyone, no matter what age,— can do their part to protect the Earth for future generations.”

In support of the climate movement, American Girl is donating $25,000 to Earth Uprising, a global, youth-led nonprofit organization focused on climate education, climate advocacy, and youth mobilization. Funds will be used to support the development of the organization’s new climate awareness curriculum and student leader training program debuting this fall. And, since the launch of American Girl’s 2021 Girl of the Year, Kira Bailey, the brand has been matching customer donations dollar for dollar up to a maximum of $25,000 to NSW Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service, Inc. (WIRES) to help rehabilitate and preserve Australian wildlife, especially those impacted by recent bushfires and drought.

In her stories, Kira cares deeply for animals and the environment and reminds fans that it’s never too late to get involved and make a difference. Kira’s world comes to life through her two books, written by Teagan, and an array of Australian-wildlife-inspired outfits and accessories that fuel imaginative play. To hear from the experts involved in Kira’s development and other amazing girls who are making a positive difference for our planet, tune into the “Making of Kira” video and read about “Why Kira Matters.”

As a nonfiction companion to the Kira stories, American Girl also published a new advice book, Love the Earth, which helps readers understand climate change and offers tips and tools for those looking to make climate-friendly choices and live an Earth-friendly life.

Part of American Girl’s 35^th birthday celebration, the new Conversations for Change series will continue to shine a spotlight on girls and young women who illustrate incredible character and reflect the multicultural and multidimensional nature of America today. Two more episodes are slated for 2021. Visit americangirl.com throughout the year to learn how the brand is celebrating and empowering the next generation of girls through inclusive stories, products, and shared experiences.

ABOUT AMERICAN GIRL

American Girl is a premium brand for girls and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAT, www.mattel.com), a leading global children's entertainment company that specializes in the design and production of quality toys and consumer products. Headquartered in Middleton, WI, American Girl offers an inspiring world of dolls, content, and experiences that nourish a girl’s spirit and help develop her strength of character. Best-selling lines include Truly Me™, Girl of the Year™, Bitty Baby®, WellieWishers™, and American Girl’s classic historical characters. The company sells products through its award-winning catalogue, on americangirl.com, in its proprietary U.S. experiential retail stores, as well as at specialty retailers nationwide. By inspiring girls to be their best, American Girl has earned the loyalty of millions and the praise and trust of parents and educators. Connect with American Girl on:

Facebook: @americangirl

Twitter: @American_Girl

Instagram: @americangirlbrand

Pinterest: agofficial

YouTube: American Girl

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