Misty Copeland was promoted to soloist at ABT, becoming the company's second African American female Soloist.
In August 2007, Misty Copeland was promoted to soloist at the American Ballet Theatre, becoming the company’s second African American female soloist. This significant promotion was not only a personal achievement, reflecting her dedication and unparalleled talent, but also a triumph for diversity in classical ballet. Her advancement broke a two-decade-long absence of African Americans in this role at ABT, challenging the racial barriers in what had long been an exclusive art form. Copeland's rise as a soloist was emblematic of a broader shift towards inclusivity in the arts.