We’re Going to the Black Joy Parade!

The Dollhouse Project is celebrating Black History Month with a free doll give away for kids at Oakland's Black Joy Parade on February 22, 2026! For their first time in the parade they are filling a classic 1972 Chevy Blazer with hundreds of high quality toys that reflect a wide range of hair styles, body types, and abilities.

Research shows that play reduces stress, strengthens family bonds, and supports healthy identity development. By bringing high-quality dolls that reflect a wide range of races, abilities, and identities directly into a joyful public celebration, the organization is turning representation into real-time impact. The Dollhouse Project hosts events for families through inclusive play, and since 2023 the group has distributed more than 1,100 dolls at pop-ups and events around the Bay Area.

“The power of representation is real — when children see themselves reflected in the toys they hold, it reinforces that they belong, they matter, and they are worthy of celebration,"  said Lesly Simmons, Founder of The Dollhouse Project. “Sharing the joy of play with our kids through dolls during Black History Month is a powerful way to build confidence, empathy, and how they see their place in the world.

To support our day at the parade, you can help in two easy ways:
Send a doll from the wishlist directly to our warehouse.
Make a tax-deductible gift to help cover doll purchases and event costs.

Learn more and give today at www.dollhouseday.com/black-joy-parade-2026.