This article is from the source 'independent' and was first published or seen on . It last changed over 40 days ago and won't be checked again for changes.

You can find the current article at its original source at http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/misty-copeland-on-becoming-american-ballet-theatres-first-black-principal-i-wanted-to-open-the-dialogue-about-race-10359628.html

The article has changed 2 times. There is an RSS feed of changes available.

Version 0 Version 1
Misty Copeland on becoming American Ballet Theatre's first black principal: ‘I wanted to open the dialogue about race’ Misty Copeland on becoming American Ballet Theatre's first black principal: ‘I wanted to open the dialogue about race’
(6 months later)
Misty Copeland has spoken about her historic achievement of becoming American Ballet Theater's first black principal in the company’s 75-year history.Misty Copeland has spoken about her historic achievement of becoming American Ballet Theater's first black principal in the company’s 75-year history.
In an interview with E! News, she said: "This has all become more than I ever imagined. I wanted to open the dialogue about race in ballet and bring more people in. It's just beautiful to see the interest that has exploded for such an incredible art form that I will forever be grateful to!"In an interview with E! News, she said: "This has all become more than I ever imagined. I wanted to open the dialogue about race in ballet and bring more people in. It's just beautiful to see the interest that has exploded for such an incredible art form that I will forever be grateful to!"
Ms Copeland told E! News that ballet’s lack of diversity never steered her away from the art — until she reached adulthood.Ms Copeland told E! News that ballet’s lack of diversity never steered her away from the art — until she reached adulthood.
"I wasn't completely aware of all of that and what it meant. How deep rooted it is in this culture. So I had no apprehensions. But as an adult it was a scary thought. I questioned my future many times.""I wasn't completely aware of all of that and what it meant. How deep rooted it is in this culture. So I had no apprehensions. But as an adult it was a scary thought. I questioned my future many times."
She also advised young women of colour to follow her lead, stating that to breakthrough, she knew she was representing many more women than herself.She also advised young women of colour to follow her lead, stating that to breakthrough, she knew she was representing many more women than herself.
On the phone with @susanfaleshill crying tears of joy for @mistyonpointe & all the little girls she will inspire! pic.twitter.com/4tyX8jxLFu
"Just because I'm here in this position now doesn't necessarily mean it's not still going to be hard for others. Barack Obama being President of the United States doesn't mean racism has disappeared. It's all a process and we have to be aware that the work never ends.""Just because I'm here in this position now doesn't necessarily mean it's not still going to be hard for others. Barack Obama being President of the United States doesn't mean racism has disappeared. It's all a process and we have to be aware that the work never ends."
Ms Copeland was also recognised in May as one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people.Ms Copeland was also recognised in May as one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people.