Scenes of Silenced Screams

A few snapshots from the Mills College takeover protests.

Protests for Mills began the day closure was unexpectedly announced in March, 2021. Photo: Sarah Endriss.

Stunned alumnae responded with calls for truth and transparency around the idea that the Mills Institute could replace a degree granting college. Alumnae won their lawsuit but the acquisition continued with support from the Attorney General and other politicians. Shortly after the closure announcement, the merger was revealed. Photo: Joyce Yee

Outside analysis uncovers so much false information, painting a picture of a cynical leadership that employed techniques of disaster capitalism. A body of research is available on many protest websites; see them all at millsrebelalliance.net. Graphic: Dani Stone

“Mills was murdered” became a rallying cry.

Students demand answers in the rushed, inept transition. After choosing a unique small college experience they were forced into the bureaucratic nightmare of a massive school. Given one week to choose their future path, many left, many changed majors, some started a class action lawsuit. Photo: Kristen Caven

President Hillman used delay tactics to mollify students, teachers, and alumnae alike, creating false hope. When Northeastern took over they made the campus mask-optional in spite of state and local mandates. Photo: Kristen Caven

Posters/social posts bitter that she would continue as president of the Northeastern sponsored Mills Institute, which seemed in hindsight to be the plan before the closure announcement. She resigned after accusations of self-dealing and is now running the 9/11 Memorial and Museum in NYC. (Presumably into the ground.)

The faculty operated without a contract for years, and was brushed off by Mills admins until after the takeover was complete.

A protest at the president’s house. Now staff is facing 400% raise in health care and many can’t afford to work at Mills.

Just a few years ago, alumnae sung a welcome to graduating students. This year they were asked not to come to graduation — for obvious reasons. Yet students called on alumnae for help when the college failed to provide regalia. Photo: Priya Kanuga Chugani

In spite of months of calls to action, the erasure of Mills went largely unrecognized by local news sources. Northeastern took possession on June 30, 2022. Photo: C. Henry Moyer

Finally acknowledged by female politicians, alumnae and students strike the 1990 “Strong women, proud women” pose at city hall. Photo: Priya Kanuga Chugani