I had no idea of this.
My parents gave me an American Girl doll back in the late 80s. I was in elementary school and enjoyed reading the books very much. I got the World War II -era doll since I was something of a history buff even then! That was when they had only 3 dolls and when the founder of the company was still in charge. The doll and the clothing and accessories are very well-crafted and I have all of it in storage to give to any daughters I might have.
I've never heard anything good about Girls, Inc. - and this is just another reason not to like them. At least when I was reading the American Girl books there was a healthy dose of family values and patriotism in them. I have no clue what they're like today.
This really stinks, because my daughter has asked for a "Felicity" doll for Christmas and she really sweats this American Girl stuff. She about went crazy when she got the last catalog.