Commonwealth Club Of California Podcast

In 2015, Misty Copeland made history and changed the dance world forever when she became the first African-American female principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre. But as she will tell you, achievements like this never happen in a void. Behind her and supporting her rise was her mentor, Raven Wilkinson. A trailblazer in the world of ballet, Wilkinson fought to be taken seriously as a Black ballerina in the 1950s and '60s. During this time Wilkinson faced overt and casual racism, hostile crowds, and death threats for having the audacity to dance ballet. Copeland honors the unheralded contributions made by women like Wilkinson who helped pave the way so she could pursue her dream career. She will also share more about her own journey, struggles with racism and exclusion, and intergenerational friendship and mentorship with Wilkinson. NOTES This program is generously supported by the Applied Materials Foundation.   SPEAKERS Misty Copeland Principal Dancer, American Ballet Theatre; Author, The Wind at My