My journey in ballet has been filled with moments of triumph and challenge. One of those challenges was the ubiquitous “European Pink” pointe shoe, a shade that didn’t reflect my skin tone. Time and time again, I found myself coloring my pointe shoes, striving for a match closer to my own shade. It was a constant reminder of the subtle ways dancers of color have not been included.

Fortunately, ballet shoe companies are beginning to embrace diversity by offering pointe shoes in various shades. Yet, when I use Apple’s pointe shoe emoji, I only see “European Pink.” In an era where Apple showcases diversity across its emoji spectrum, why is the pointe shoe left behind? 

This petition isn’t just about an emoji. It’s about ensuring the art of ballet, in all its forms, celebrates every dancer’s story and shade.

Action Call:

Join me in addressing this by signing this petition and urging Apple and Unicode to introduce a spectrum of shades for the pointe shoe emoji. Every signature brings us one step closer to a world where ballet, both on the stage and in digital spaces, reflects all of us.

How You Can Help:

 1. Sign this petition.
 2. Share our mission on social media with #MakeAPointe and tag @mistyonpointe on Instagram or @mistycopeland on TikTok
 3. Encourage your circle to advocate for this overdue change.