PDF Summary:The Wind at My Back, by Misty Copeland

In The Wind at My Back, ballerina Misty Copeland shares the profound influence of Raven Wilkinson, a pioneering Black ballerina who broke barriers in the 1950s. Copeland emphasizes the struggles Black dancers like Wilkinson endured to pursue ballet and details how Wilkinson's courage mentored Copeland on her own groundbreaking path to becoming American Ballet Theatre's first Black female principal dancer.

By highlighting Wilkinson's harrowing experiences and resilience, Copeland illustrates the ongoing systemic racism and lack of diversity within ballet. She spotlights how continued practices like blackface warrant change and shows her mission to amplify the stories of Black dancers, promoting greater inclusion and representation on stages and in leadership.

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• Engage in scenario planning for your personal and professional life to prepare for potential challenges. This involves imagining different scenarios that could arise, such as injury or increased competition at work, and then outlining proactive steps you could take to maintain your performance and well-being. By doing this, you equip yourself with a mental toolkit that can help reduce anxiety about the future and enable you to act decisively when faced with adversity.
• Engage in a "resilience exchange" with a friend or colleague where you share stories of overcoming adversity once a week. This can be done through a simple phone call, a walk, or over coffee. Sharing experiences can provide new perspectives and strategies for building resilience, and hearing about someone else's determination can inspire your own.
• Develop a checklist of questions to ask during medical consultations to fully understand the risks and benefits of treatments. Before visiting a doctor, prepare a list of specific questions about potential treatments, such as success rates, recovery times, and possible complications. This ensures that you gather enough information to weigh the pros and cons of high-risk options like surgeries with implants.
• Develop a 'Peer Confrontation Circle' with friends or colleagues where you meet regularly to discuss and support each other in confronting personal uncertainties. Each member brings up an issue they're dealing with, and the group works together to provide feedback and actionable advice. This collective approach can provide diverse perspectives and encourage taking steps to overcome shared anxieties.
• Develop a personal health advocacy plan by researching and listing local healthcare professionals who align with your health philosophy and are open to patient collaboration. This could include integrative medicine doctors, patient-centered clinics, or therapists with a holistic approach. Having this list prepared means you're ready to seek out supportive care when needed, rather than settling for the first available option in a crisis.

Misty's Determination to Prove Herself and Overcome Obstacles

Despite the limitations imposed by her injury and the anxieties she battled due to being Black and female in a predominantly white art form, Misty Copeland demonstrated a remarkable determination to prove herself and overcome the obstacles placed in her path. Fueled by the support of her guide Raven Wilkinson, Copeland became more active in her career, advocating for herself and seeking out opportunities to showcase her growth and artistry.

Copeland challenged the traditional hierarchy within American Ballet Theatre, directly addressing casting decisions with the artistic head and pushing for roles that she felt she deserved. She also embraced opportunities outside the company, joining Prince's "Welcome 2 America" tour and working with Dance Theatre of Harlem, expanding her artistic horizons. Copeland’s relentless pursuit of excellence, combined with her growing confidence and willingness to challenge the status quo, prepared her for her breakthrough performances and historic promotions.

Practical Tips

• Develop a personal "Obstacle Course" of activities that push you out of your comfort zone. This could be a monthly plan where each week, you tackle a new activity that challenges you in a different way. For instance, one week could be dedicated to initiating conversations with strangers if you're shy, while another could be learning a new skill that intimidates you, like coding or cooking a complex recipe.
• Practice self-affirmation by creating a list of your strengths and achievements that are unrelated to societal expectations or norms. Refer to this list whenever you feel overwhelmed by anxieties related to your identity. This can help reinforce your self-worth and remind you of your unique contributions to your field or community.
• Start a peer recognition program at your workplace or within a community group. Encourage members to nominate others who have been supportive, much like Raven Wilkinson was. This can be as simple as a "Supporter of the Month" award, which highlights and rewards the efforts of those who uplift their colleagues or peers.
• Create a personal growth portfolio to document and present your skills and achievements. Start by collecting evidence of your work, such as projects, feedback, and any recognitions. Use a simple website builder or a digital portfolio platform to organize and display this information attractively. Regularly update it with new accomplishments and use it as a tool to advocate for yourself in professional settings or when seeking new opportunities.
• Experiment with rotating leadership roles in group projects or meetings. This gives everyone a chance to lead and share their perspective, challenging the idea that only certain positions have authority. In your next group project, assign a different leader for each phase of the project, ensuring that each member gets the opportunity to guide the team.
• Create a feedback loop with your peers to gather insights on team composition and present these findings to leadership. Start a shared document where team members can anonymously contribute their thoughts on the team's strengths and weaknesses. Periodically, summarize the feedback and present it to your supervisor, suggesting any changes that could improve team performance.
• Practice assertive communication by role-playing scenarios where you ask for what you deserve with a friend or mentor. Focus on maintaining a confident tone, clear language, and positive body language to convey your conviction and readiness for the roles you're pursuing.
• You can expand your professional network by joining a cross-industry mentoring program. By participating in a mentoring program that includes professionals from various fields, you'll gain insights into different industries and create relationships that could lead to opportunities outside your current company. For example, if you work in tech, seek a mentor in the healthcare sector to understand how tech can solve problems in that space.
• Volunteer at music events to immerse yourself in the live performance atmosphere. Many festivals and concerts rely on volunteers for various roles, from ticketing to stage setup. This hands-on experience can give you a taste of what goes into organizing a tour and the excitement of live music, without needing to be a musician or event planner.
• Create a personal project that combines your interests with elements of dance or theater, such as a photo essay, blog, or video series documenting local dance culture. This project can serve as a creative outlet and a means to explore and share the impact of dance and theater on individual lives and communities.
• Implement a "one percent better" approach to your daily routine. Identify small, incremental changes you can make each day to improve an aspect of your life. This could be as simple as reading ten extra pages of a challenging book each day, doing one more push-up than the day before, or spending an additional five minutes practicing a musical instrument.
• Create a personal challenge that involves public accountability, like posting a video of yourself learning a new skill on social media. The feedback and support from your network can reinforce your self-worth and encourage you to take on further challenges.
• Create a "Status Quo Swap" with a friend or colleague where you exchange one aspect of your daily routine with theirs for a week. If they typically take a different route to work, try it out, or if they have a unique approach to organizing their emails, adopt it. This can expose you to different ways of thinking and operating, which might be more effective or enjoyable than your current methods.
• Set up a monthly "Breakthrough Performance Review" with a trusted peer or mentor. During this session, discuss your recent work, focusing on areas where you've pushed beyond your comfort zone. This feedback loop not only helps you identify areas for improvement but also highlights your achievements, which can boost confidence and prepare you for future opportunities.

Misty's Breakthrough Performances and Historic Promotions

This section highlights Misty Copeland's career-defining performances portraying the Firebird and Swan Queen, in addition to her historic promotion as American Ballet Theatre's first Black woman to hold a principal dancer position. Copeland emphasizes how these breakthroughs were made possible, partly by her own talent and tenacity, but also through the support and guidance of her mentor, Raven Wilkinson, and the growing recognition of her artistry and the significance of her journey in ballet.

Misty's Firebird and Swan Queen Debut

Misty Copeland's debut performances as the Firebird and Swan Queen marked significant milestones in her career and the history of ballet. The Firebird, an iconic role steeped in symbolism for Black ballerinas thanks to the legacy of the Harlem Dance Theatre, presented Copeland with an opportunity to showcase her unique strengths and artistry. Conversely, playing the lead swan role challenged Copeland to confront the deeply ingrained biases within ballet that had historically excluded Black women from portraying this archetypal feminine role.

Copeland's success in both roles, particularly her emotional and powerful interpretation of Odette/Odile, showcased her versatility and technical mastery, defying expectations and captivating audiences worldwide. She recounts the internal struggles she faced while preparing for these roles, battling self-doubt and anxiety about whether she could meet the expectations placed upon her as a ballerina of color. Copeland acknowledges the impact of Raven Wilkinson's support and guidance, helping her to overcome these doubts and embrace the opportunity to redefine what a Black ballerina could achieve. These performances not only solidified Copeland's credibility as an artist but also opened doors for future generations of Black dancers, proving that they could excel in the most demanding and iconic roles within the ballet repertoire.

Practical Tips

• Identify a personal milestone and celebrate it with a unique performance. Just as significant performances marked milestones in ballet, you can commemorate your own achievements by creating a special event or performance that reflects your journey. For example, if you've recently mastered a new language, organize a small gathering where you perform a scene from a play or recite poetry in that language, inviting friends and family to celebrate with you.
• Create a personal 'highlight reel' by recording moments when you feel you're at your best, whether it's during a presentation, a creative session, or even a conversation. Review these recordings to analyze and understand your artistry, which can be a blend of your communication style, problem-solving approach, or any other personal attribute that shines through.
• Develop technical mastery by setting up a personal project that requires a high level of detail and precision. For example, if you enjoy gardening, try cultivating a bonsai tree, which demands attention to detail and patience. This practice will help you appreciate the importance of technique and precision in any field.
• Attend a local theater production or ballet and focus on the non-verbal cues that performers use to convey emotion. Pay attention to their body language, facial expressions, and movements. Afterward, try to emulate some of these expressions in front of a mirror to get a sense of how physicality can enhance storytelling.
• Engage in "Role-Reversal Reflection" by writing a letter to yourself from the perspective of a trusted friend or mentor. This exercise helps you see your situation with more compassion and objectivity. Imagine what a supportive person would say about your struggles, and use this to challenge your self-doubt and anxiety.
• Create a personal branding strategy to define and communicate your unique value proposition. Identify your strengths, values, and the type of work you want to be known for, then consistently express this through your professional attire, business cards, online profiles, and in conversations at networking events.

Misty Becomes First Black Female Principal Dancer At Abt

Misty Copeland was promoted to the principal dancer role at ABT, marking a historic moment in ballet and a milestone in the quest for greater diversity and inclusion within this traditionally white-dominated art form. The author describes the weight and significance of this achievement, not only a personal triumph but also a symbolic victory for all the Black dancers who preceded her and for future generations.

Copeland acknowledges the challenges she faced on her journey to this position, often battling skepticism in ballet about her technical abilities and the ability of a Black woman to truly embody the prestigious roles associated with a principal dancer. However, her breakthrough performances as the Firebird and Swan Queen silenced those doubts and forced a reevaluation of preconceived notions about Black ballerinas. Copeland rightfully attributes her success to a combination of hard work, determination, the support she received from her guide, Raven Wilkinson, and the growing recognition her unique artistry deserved.

Context

• A principal dancer is the top-ranking dancer in a ballet company, often performing lead roles in productions. This position is highly competitive and requires exceptional skill and artistry.
• Her promotion reflects a broader cultural shift towards diversity and inclusion in the arts, encouraging other institutions to reevaluate their practices and strive for more equitable representation.
• Copeland's path to success involved overcoming personal and professional challenges, including late entry into ballet and financial hardships, highlighting her resilience and dedication.
• Her performances received widespread critical acclaim, with reviewers praising her technical prowess, emotional expressiveness, and the fresh perspective she brought to these classic roles.
• As a public figure, a dancer's success can also depend on how they are perceived by audiences and critics, which can influence their career opportunities and legacy.
• Her involvement in various projects, such as books and collaborations with other artists, has showcased her versatility and helped audiences appreciate the depth of her artistry.

Ballet's Efforts to Address Race and Inclusion

This section focuses on the ongoing issues of racism and lack of diversity within the ballet world, highlighted by the Bolshoi Ballet's continued use of blackface and the backlash Misty Copeland faced for speaking out against this practice. Copeland emphasizes the need for meaningful dialogue and systemic change in ballet institutions, advocating for greater representation both on stage and in leadership roles.

Racism and the Ballet World's Lack of Diversity

Misty Copeland exposes the deeply embedded racism and lack of diversity that continue to plague ballet, despite the progress made in recent decades. She highlights the persistent use of blackface in productions of ballets like La Bayadère by renowned companies such as the Bolshoi Ballet, demonstrating a blatant disregard for the sensitivities of Black dancers and the harmful legacy of this practice. Copeland's experience calling out the use of blackface by the Bolshoi and facing a wave of racist attacks from Russian trolls and its leadership illustrates the resistance within ballet to confront its systemic issues and the silencing tactics used against those who dare to speak out.

Copeland emphasizes that this incident is not an isolated event but a symptom of a broader problem within ballet: the exclusion of dancers of diverse racial backgrounds from leadership roles, the marginalization of their voices, and the difficulty they face in advancing their careers within predominantly white institutions. She argues that the absence of diverse representation within ballet companies, boards, and artistic staff reflects the systemic racism that has historically defined ballet and perpetuates a culture of inequality. Copeland calls for a dismantling of these structures and a shift in power to create a ballet world that’s fairer and more open to Black dancers and the art form as a whole.

Bolshoi Ballet's Blackface Use and Backlash Against Misty For Speaking Out

Misty Copeland drew global attention to the entrenched racism in ballet when she publicly criticized the Bolshoi Ballet for their continued use of blackface in La Bayadère. In the face of public pressure, rather than acknowledging the harm and insensitivity of this practice, Bolshoi Ballet leadership and even other dancers defended its use, citing cultural differences and claiming blackface was not offensive within their tradition.

Copeland's refusal to back down from her criticism, in spite of pressure from her company to apologize and the racist attacks she faced from Russian trolls, exposed the deeply flawed understanding of race within the dance community and the absence of backing for those who challenge the status quo. This incident ultimately became a catalyst for a much-needed conversation about race and representation in ballet, making it difficult for companies and institutions to ignore the problem of systemic racism within their own ranks.

Practical Tips

• Start conversations with friends and family about the importance of cultural representation in the arts. Use current events or recent viewings as a springboard for discussion, and share insights from the educational resources you've encountered. This can be as simple as discussing the casting choices in a movie you watched together, exploring why certain portrayals might be problematic, and brainstorming ways the industry can improve.
• Create a personal policy for attending performances that involves researching the cultural practices and norms of the production beforehand. If you find that a performance includes potentially offensive elements, such as blackface, you can choose to support alternative productions that align with your values of cultural respect and sensitivity.
• Create a personal protocol for dealing with online trolls to maintain your mental well-being. Write down steps to take when you encounter online harassment, such as taking a break from the screen, talking to a friend, or reporting the abuse to the platform. Having a plan in place can make you feel more in control and less affected by the attacks.

Other Perspectives

• The backlash against Misty Copeland could be interpreted as a vocal minority, while silent or less visible supporters may exist within the ballet community.

Slow Progress on Systemic Racism and Representation

Despite increased awareness of the diversity and inclusion shortcomings in ballet, Misty Copeland asserts that systemic change within the art form has been slow and often superficial. She argues that simply adding more nonwhite dancers to companies or adjusting existing ballet repertoire to remove overtly racist elements is not enough to address the underlying issues of discrimination and the exclusion of Black voices from leadership positions.

Copeland calls for a broader approach to address ballet's systemic racism, one that includes greater representation of Black dancers in artistic staff and leadership roles, changes in funding structures to support Black-led organizations and initiatives, and a reevaluation of ballet training programs to make them more accessible to those from underrepresented communities. She stresses the importance of continued dialogue and education about race and the history of exclusion within ballet and challenges the community to acknowledge the impact of racism on Black dancers and to work proactively to dismantle the systems that perpetuate inequality.

Context

• Leadership positions come with the power to make significant decisions about hiring, programming, and funding, which can directly influence the diversity and inclusivity of a ballet company.
• Historically, arts funding has often favored established, predominantly white institutions, leaving Black-led organizations with fewer resources and opportunities for growth and visibility.
• Ballet has its roots in the courts of Renaissance Italy and later flourished in France and Russia. Historically, it has been dominated by Eurocentric ideals, which have often excluded or marginalized nonwhite dancers.

Other Perspectives

• Others might suggest that the pace of change in ballet reflects broader societal progress on issues of race and representation, and that ballet, as a traditional art form, may inherently be slower to change than other sectors.
• These actions, while not wholly sufficient, can be part of a multi-faceted strategy that includes the broader systemic changes called for, rather than being dismissed as merely superficial.
• There could be a concern that focusing on accessibility for underrepresented communities might lead to tokenism rather than genuine inclusion.

Misty Copeland's Role as Ballet Advocate for Change and Inclusion

Misty Copeland consistently uses her platform to advocate for increasing representation in ballet, challenging the status quo and speaking truth to power in a predominantly white art form. Copeland's activities reflect her commitment to creating a more equitable and representative ballet world for upcoming dancers like herself.

Copeland’s efforts go beyond just advocating for more Black dancers on stage; she actively champions a dismantling of the systemic structures within ballet that limit opportunities for those from underrepresented backgrounds. She has lent her voice and influence to panel discussions, conferences, and documentaries, raising awareness about the need for change and calling for concrete action from ballet leadership and institutions. Copeland’s advocacy emphasizes the importance of incorporating Black perspectives and voices into every aspect of ballet, from artistic direction to training programs and funding structures.

Misty's Sharing Experiences With Racial Bias to Drive Reform

Misty Copeland's willingness to be vulnerable and share her own experiences with racism and exclusion within the ballet world has been crucial in driving change and fostering understanding. By speaking openly about the microaggressions, isolation, and doubt she has faced as a Black dancer, Copeland challenges her peers and the broader dance community to acknowledge the impact of racial bias and to examine their own unconscious prejudices.

Her honesty and transparency serve as a powerful tool to educate those who may be unaware of the subtle forms of discrimination that Black dancers still encounter today and to humanize the issue of racism within a predominantly white art form. Copeland's openness in discussing the Bolshoi blackface incident and the absence of support she felt from within her own company forced a much-needed internal conversation about race and triggered a sense of responsibility and accountability within the ballet world.

Practical Tips

• Engage in active listening when people of diverse backgrounds share their experiences. Instead of preparing your response or thinking about your own experiences, focus entirely on what the other person is saying. Ask questions that show you're interested in understanding their perspective, and resist the urge to compare their experiences to your own or to others.
• You can start a personal journal to reflect on your experiences with race and dance. Each day, write about any moments where race may have influenced your thoughts or actions in the dance community. This could include reactions to dance performances, casting decisions, or interactions with dancers of different backgrounds. Over time, you'll have a record that can help you identify patterns in your own behavior and thoughts.
• Volunteer to serve on a diversity committee at your workplace or in community organizations, where you can help develop policies and initiatives that promote racial equity and accountability. Your involvement can ensure that these important conversations continue and lead to tangible actions.

Misty Amplifies Black Dancers' Stories and Experiences

In addition to sharing her own experiences, Misty Copeland works continuously to amplify the voices and stories of other Black dancers, past and present. By highlighting the contributions of those who have been historically excluded from ballet narratives, she challenges the traditional notion of what a ballerina can look like and what stories are deemed worthy of telling.

Copeland draws inspiration from Black ballet pioneers such as Raven Wilkinson, recognizing the significance of their journeys in paving the way for her own success. She uses her platform to showcase the talents of contemporary performers of African descent, making sure their perspectives are shared and their achievements celebrated. By promoting a more diverse and inclusive representation of ballet, Copeland advocates for a reimagining of the art form that honors its rich history and embraces its future potential.

Practical Tips

• Initiate a mentorship ripple effect by mentoring someone else in your field. Use the insights and support you've received from others to guide and empower a less experienced individual. This not only pays forward the help you've received but also strengthens your understanding of your own journey by teaching and articulating it to someone else.
• Incorporate a "roundtable" segment into your regular meetings, whether they're professional or casual gatherings, where each person has the opportunity to share something they've learned or achieved since the last meeting. This practice not only ensures that everyone's voice is heard but also builds a supportive environment that values individual contributions.
• Curate a personal collection that blends traditional and contemporary pieces. Begin by selecting a few classic works that represent the art form's history. Then, pair each with a modern counterpart that either contrasts with or complements the traditional piece. Displaying these pairs together in your living space can serve as a daily reminder of the art form's dynamic nature and encourage conversations with guests about its evolution.

Raven Wilkinson's Influence on Misty Copeland

This section explores the enduring legacy of Raven Wilkinson's experiences and mentorship on Misty Copeland's personal and professional evolution. Copeland highlights the profound connection she felt to Wilkinson's path and underscores her determination to carry on Wilkinson's work as an advocate for Black ballerinas.

Raven's Influence on Misty and Ballet as a Whole

Raven Wilkinson's impact on Misty Copeland and ballet as a whole transcends the typical mentor-mentee relationship. Wilkinson's experiences became a catalyst for Copeland's personal growth and ignited a sense of purpose within her, extending beyond her own artistry and into a broader realm of advocacy and social change.

Copeland recognizes that her accomplishments as a Black ballerina stand on the shoulders of those who came before her, particularly those like Wilkinson who endured the brunt of overt racism and segregation during the Jim Crow era. Wilkinson's unwavering commitment to her art form and refusal to deny her identity as a Black woman served as a model for Copeland's own navigation of the ballet world, inspiring her courage and resilience. By highlighting Wilkinson's story and emphasizing its relevance to today's ballet culture, Copeland challenges the entire dance community to confront its history of exclusion and to work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive environment for all dancers.

Misty's Connection and Debt To Raven's Path

Misty Copeland acknowledges a profound connection to Raven Wilkinson's path as a ballerina of African descent, recognizing the generational debt she owes to Wilkinson's pioneering efforts. Copeland describes her first encounter with Wilkinson’s story through the documentary about Ballets Russes as a revelatory experience, realizing that her journey was not unprecedented despite often feeling isolated as the only Black woman in her company.

Copeland connected with Wilkinson’s struggles against racism and exclusion in ballet and drew strength and inspiration from her unwavering commitment to her art form. She frequently reflects on Wilkinson's life in the segregated South, where Wilkinson was forced to stay in hotels for Black patrons and faced threats of violence, acknowledging that those experiences paved the way for her own opportunities. Copeland's career, including her historic promotion to principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre, serves as a testament to Wilkinson's legacy and the impact of her perseverance on future generations of Black ballerinas.

Practical Tips

• Start a mentorship chain by reaching out to professionals who embody the qualities you admire and ask them to share their experiences. Then, commit to mentoring someone else who is a step behind you in their career. If you're a graphic designer, find a designer whose work and career path you respect, and request an informational interview. Later, offer to review portfolios for students at a local design school.
• Create a visual timeline of your career or personal journey, highlighting the moments you felt isolated and then researching to find others who have shared similar experiences. This can help you see that your path is not as solitary as it might seem. For example, if you're the only person from your background in your workplace, look for stories of others in your industry who have faced similar challenges and how they've navigated them.
• Connect with historical figures in your field by creating a visual timeline that includes their challenges and achievements. Start by researching individuals who have faced and overcome adversity in your area of interest. Then, use a free online tool or a simple poster board to map out their lives alongside key historical events. This visual aid can serve as a daily reminder of resilience and a source of inspiration when facing your own challenges.
• Start a commitment journal where you reflect on your daily efforts towards your goals. At the end of each day, write down what you did to advance your skills or work towards your passion. This practice not only keeps you accountable but also allows you to see your progress over time, which can be incredibly inspiring.
• Engage in a monthly "reflection day" where you disconnect from current media and technology to read about and contemplate the lives of those who've paved the way in your area of interest. This practice can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the groundwork laid by predecessors, which can inform and motivate your current projects.
• Educate yourself on historical and current civil rights issues by curating a diverse reading list that includes biographies, historical accounts, and contemporary analyses. By understanding the struggles and triumphs of individuals like Raven Wilkinson, you can develop a more empathetic and informed perspective on racial equality. For example, you might read one book per month that delves into the experiences of marginalized communities, ensuring that you're continually expanding your awareness.
• Explore the influence of mentors by writing a reflective essay on how someone in your life has shaped your journey. Think about a person who has inspired or guided you, whether it's a teacher, family member, or public figure. Write about the specific ways they've impacted your decisions and growth. This exercise can deepen your appreciation for their role in your life and may inspire you to pass on their wisdom to others.
• You can honor the legacy of trailblazers by creating a visual art project that pays tribute to their influence. Gather stories and images of pioneers in your field of interest, and use them to craft a collage or digital slideshow. For example, if you're inspired by innovators in technology, collect old photographs, quotes, and significant milestones to create a visual narrative that highlights their perseverance and impact.

Raven Wilkinson's Essence Lives Through Misty Copeland's Performances and Advocacy

Misty Copeland emphasizes that Raven Wilkinson's spirit continues to inspire her performances and advocacy within the ballet world, reinforcing her awareness of the responsibility and purpose of her platform. Each time Copeland performs, particularly in legendary roles such as the Firebird and Swan Queen, she carries the legacy of Black ballerinas who came before her, honoring their struggles and celebrating their victories.

Copeland’s tireless efforts to amplify Wilkinson’s story and advocate for greater representation in ballet are a direct extension of Wilkinson's legacy. By sharing her own experiences with racial discrimination and exclusion and challenging ballet institutions to confront their systemic issues, Copeland embodies the spirit of Wilkinson’s lifelong fight for equality and representation. Through her performances, advocacy, and mentorship of younger Black dancers, Copeland ensures that Wilkinson's essence lives on and keeps shaping ballet's evolution.

Context

• Raven Wilkinson was one of the first African American ballerinas to perform with a major ballet company, the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo, in the 1950s. Her courage and perseverance in the face of racial discrimination paved the way for future generations of Black dancers.
• The roles of the Firebird and Swan Queen (from "Swan Lake") are iconic in the ballet world, often seen as benchmarks for a ballerina's technical and artistic prowess. Performing these roles places a dancer in a lineage of celebrated performers.
• Despite her talent, Wilkinson faced significant racial discrimination, including being barred from performing in certain Southern states and being forced to wear white makeup to "pass" as white on stage.
• Beyond her performances, Copeland uses her platform through public speaking engagements and writing, including books and articles, to address issues of race and representation in the arts.

Misty's Grief and Determination to Continue Raven's Work

This section reveals the personal impact of Raven Wilkinson's death on Misty Copeland, her struggle to cope with the loss, and her renewed resolve to continue Wilkinson's work as a champion for Black ballerinas and for greater inclusion in ballet.

Wilkinson's Declining Health and Copeland's Inability to Help

Misty Copeland expresses the immense grief she felt after Raven Wilkinson's death and the lingering regret of not being able to fully support her during her final years. As Wilkinson's health deteriorated due to COPD-related complications, Copeland's efforts to help were met with resistance, reflecting Wilkinson's independent spirit and her adherence to the stoic code of "Black elders" who often shielded their vulnerability from younger generations.

Copeland wrestled with guilt and helplessness as she witnessed Wilkinson becoming increasingly isolated, unable to attend her performances due to her declining health. Despite numerous attempts to provide assistance and encourage Wilkinson to be more open about her needs, Copeland had to respect her boundaries, resulting in a painful sense of separation during Wilkinson's final months. Misty Copeland's profound grief upon learning of Wilkinson’s death was worsened by feeling she'd missed opportunities for connection and a deeper understanding of Wilkinson’s experiences.

Practical Tips

• Create a tribute journal to honor someone you've lost, focusing on their influence and the lessons they taught you. By writing down memories, lessons, and feelings associated with the person, you can process grief and celebrate their impact on your life, much like acknowledging the legacy of Raven Wilkinson. For example, if you lost a mentor, dedicate a page to each significant lesson they imparted, accompanied by a personal anecdote.
• Set up monthly reminders to reach out to mentors, friends, or family members who may appreciate your support. Use a digital calendar or reminder app to prompt you to send a message, make a call, or arrange a visit. This regular nudge helps you stay connected and present in the lives of those you don't want to regret not supporting.
• Create a smoke-free home environment to reduce the risk of respiratory complications. This means not only refraining from smoking yourself but also ensuring that no one else smokes in your living space. Additionally, invest in air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove particulate matter and other pollutants from your indoor air.
• Challenge social norms by intentionally doing one thing each month that goes against conventional expectations, but feels authentic to you. This could be as simple as wearing an outfit that's outside of current fashion trends because it reflects your personal style, or as significant as choosing a career path that isn't traditionally associated with success but fulfills you deeply.
• Develop a mentorship relationship with someone who embodies the stoic qualities you wish to emulate. Reach out to community leaders, educators, or professionals who demonstrate a strong sense of purpose and ask if they would be willing to share their experiences and advice with you. This relationship can provide practical insights into how to maintain dignity and strength in challenging circumstances.
• You can create a buddy system in your workplace or community group to ensure no one feels isolated. Pair up with someone else, and make it a point to check in with each other regularly, whether through a quick chat, a coffee break, or a weekly catch-up call. This fosters a sense of belonging and can help both of you feel less alone in your environments.
• Organize a small, private performance or showcase that can be recorded and sent to someone who is unable to attend larger events due to health constraints. This could be a series of dance routines, musical pieces, or readings that pay homage to their work or influence, allowing them to enjoy a personalized experience at their convenience.
• Offer to review resumes or portfolios for individuals trying to break into your industry, providing constructive feedback. This can be done through local job centers or online forums. Your insights could help someone refine their presentation and increase their chances of success. For instance, if you work in the tech industry, you could give feedback on coding projects or GitHub repositories for aspiring developers.
• Start a shared digital journal with someone you're separated from to document your thoughts, experiences, and feelings. Use a simple app or online document that both parties can access and contribute to regularly. This ongoing exchange can help maintain a sense of closeness and shared experience, despite the physical separation.
• Engage in a creative project, such as painting, music, or dance, that captures the essence of the person you're grieving. This not only serves as a coping mechanism but also as a unique expression of the bond you shared, potentially inspiring others who might relate to your experience.
• Volunteer for projects or committees where you have the chance to work alongside people you wish to connect with. This could be within your professional organization, a local charity, or a community group. By collaborating on a shared goal, you naturally create opportunities for deeper conversations and connections. For instance, if you're interested in environmental conservation, join a local clean-up initiative where you can meet and work with experts in the field.
• Initiate a collaborative storytelling project with people from different generations or backgrounds. Reach out to community centers, schools, or online forums to find participants willing to share their stories. Compile these narratives into a digital or physical collection, providing a platform for voices that might otherwise go unheard. This project not only broadens your own understanding but also creates a resource for others to learn from diverse experiences.

Other Perspectives

• The resistance to help could have been Wilkinson's way of shielding Copeland from the emotional burden and stress of her illness, showing concern for Copeland's well-being.
• Misty Copeland's encouragement for Raven Wilkinson to be more open might have been perceived as intrusive or disrespectful of Wilkinson's personal boundaries and cultural upbringing.
• Respecting boundaries does not necessarily mean complete withdrawal or inaction; it could involve seeking a balance between giving space and finding non-invasive means of support.

Misty's Mission to Honor Raven's Memory

Although Copeland was saddened by Raven Wilkinson's absence, she found purpose and renewed commitment to carry on her mentor’s legacy. Copeland's grief, rather than immobilizing her, fueled her determination to ensure that Wilkinson’s story was not forgotten and that her contribution to the world of ballet was celebrated. Copeland redoubled her efforts to share Raven's experiences, highlighting her resilience and the barriers she broke as a Black ballerina during the Jim Crow era.

Copeland dedicated performances to Wilkinson’s memory, bringing her spirit to the spotlight through her artistry and grace. She also organized a moving memorial service, gathering friends, family, and colleagues from the dance world to honor Wilkinson's remarkable life and career. Copeland’s unwavering dedication to honoring Wilkinson’s legacy has gone beyond simple remembrance; it has translated into a concrete commitment to continue the work that Wilkinson started: advocating for greater diversity and inclusion within the world of ballet, mentoring younger Black dancers, and ensuring that the stories of Black ballet pioneers are no longer erased or overlooked. Through her actions, Copeland embodies Wilkinson's enduring love for dance and her belief in its power to connect, inspire, and transform.

Context

• Such dedications can deepen the audience's understanding and appreciation of the performance, as they are invited to reflect on the historical and cultural significance of the person being honored.
• Mentorship plays a crucial role in the development of young dancers, providing guidance, support, and inspiration. Copeland's mentorship of younger dancers helps to continue the legacy of those who came before her, like Wilkinson.