This fall, we proudly dedicated space in the Rothwell Center
that is named the Solidarity Lounge. The Solidarity Lounge is
integral to the commitment to diversity and inclusion for the Mills
community.
It was affirming to hear from a student this week who wrote
excitedly that “BWC women, Mujeres women, and their allies were
studying together in the Solidarity Lounge.”
The Solidarity Lounge is a place for students of color and their
allies to come together to study, to hold meetings and to find
sanctuary in a “hate-free” space.
Some have been heard to say that the lounge is temporary. Rumors
are quick to spread and difficult to quell, but it is NOT
temporary. Others have heard that white women are not allowed in
the Solidarity Lounge and that graduate students are unwelcome. All
members of the Mills community committed to a multicultural,
multi-ethnic learning environment and value and respect the spirit
of the Solidarity Lounge are welcome.
Since this is the inaugural semester, plans for programming are
underway and will be widely publicized. Examples of things to come
are:
-Discussion of “What is the Solidarity Lounge?” Tuesday, Oct.
28th at 7 p.m. in the Student Union (refreshments in the “S”
Lounge) and again on Wednesday, Oct. 29th at 12 noon in the “S”
Lounge.
-Hyphen Magazine Launch Party-a magazine about Asian-Pacific
Americans (two alumnae are magazine staffers)-Friday, Nov. 7th from
7-8:30 pm in the “S” Lounge.
-Film showing and discussion of “Out: The Making of a
Revolutionary,” a film that celebrates the life of Laura Whitehorn,
a white lesbian activist & ally to women of color and tells of
her struggles for freedom and justice. Monday, Nov. 10th at 7 p.m.
in the “S” Lounge. Co-sponsored by the Ethnic Studies Department
and the student organization, “Education, Not Incarceration.”
We hope you join us in honoring this new addition to the Mills
campus. The Solidarity Lounge is a shining example of Mills’
commitment to insuring the success of all its students.
Shirley Weishaar, Dean of Students
