Race continued ...

Looking at July, the issue that follows your examination of race, I wonder if the editors have taken heed to what African American dancers have said? In June, black dancers voiced concerns about being type-cast as "fiery" and not being appreciated for their feminine beauty and softness. But, in July's "Where Have All the DTH Dancers Gone?", Andrea Long is called "dramatic." Maia Wilkins, the cover story, is described as "small, rail thin, and perfectly proportioned--with curly, corn silk blonde hair, and an alabaster complexion." How come there is no mention of the beautiful physical characteristics of Josette Wiggan? What about her smooth, ebony skin? Her prominent cheekbones? In my 10 years of reading DANCE MAGAZINE, I have yet to see a black woman being described as "beautiful" or anything remotely close. You all seriously need to check yourselves and the articles you present to the public.

BRIGITTE HARDRICK

MILWAUKEE, WI

DM Responds: In the last few months, African American dancers have been described in our pages (and online) as handsome, stunning, mesmerizing, elegant, and extraordinary. The word beautiful, I believe, has not been applied directly to a dancer of any sort. However, we do take your challenge seriously. We intended for our race issue to open up dialogue, not to be a flash in the pan. So we will try our best to be consistently aware of racial pitfalls, but we cannot guarantee that we will never offend anyone.