Misty Copeland Cuba: Ballerina Travels To Island As Cultural Ambassador To Influence Diversity

Misty Copeland has taken the dance world by storm as she made history as the first African American ballerina at the America Ballet Theater. Now, the ballet star is making history once again as she is currently in Cuba speaking to promote cultural dialogue between the country and the U.S.

According to Latina, the dancer, who was recently named the Sports and Cultural Envoy by the Department of State is currently making her rounds in Cuba as she sparks cultural dialogue between the two countries.

As part of the program for her visit, which seeks to promote cultural dialogue between Cuba and the United States, Copeland on Tuesday visited the National Ballet of Cuba, headed by legendary ballerina and choreographer Alicia Alonso, who is 95.

“She will tell her unique personal story to emphasize how diversity of race, ethnicity, geography, gender and experience contributes to the fabric of the United States,” the Department of State said in a statement. “Copeland will address how young people should focus on health and wellness over body image.”

The site reports that on her visits to the dance centers, Copeland will meet and exchange ideas with teachers and some of the more than 8,000 dance students currently training in Cuba.

FOX News Latino reports that while in Cuba, "She will tell her unique personal story to emphasize how diversity of race, ethnicity, geography, gender and experience contributes to the fabric of the United States. Copeland will address how young people should focus on health and wellness over body image," the State Department said in announcing her trip.

Copeland will be in Cuba until Nov. 18, a visit taking place within the context of the normalization of relations between Washington and Havana begun in late 2014 by Presidents Barack Obama and Raul Castro after more than half a century without diplomatic ties.

Cuba and the United States has had a controversial relationship in the past but with this move of sparking cultural discussions, Cuba may be getting into a better standing.