Raven Wilkinson

Raven Wilkinson (1935-2018) was a pioneering African American ballet dancer, known for being the first black woman to perform with the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. Throughout her career, she faced significant racial challenges but remained a trailblazer for future generations of dancers. Wilkinson's legacy includes inspiring dancers like Misty Copeland, who credited her as a crucial mentor in bridging the gap between personal identity and professional artistry.