Photos from the University Archives

Fifty years ago, a group of student activists locked themselves in Pierce Hall in an attempt to demand change. While they didn’t realize it at the time, their action pushed EMU into a half-century quest for greater inclusion.

All eyes were on EMU on Feb. 20, 1969, when 14 students were arrested for their participation in the Pierce Hall demonstration. The arrests resulted in wide-spread student protests and class boycotts.

Tensions were high at Eastern as student protestors were met by police in riot gear. Students had marched to President Sponberg’s house, intent on demanding that no punitive action be taken against student demonstrators.

Despite charges pending against him, Bob Smith (at microphone) still actively advocated for student rights in front of President Sponberg (middle).

There are many white faces in the archival photographs from Feb. 20, 1969, proving that a broad swath of the EMU student body was frustrated by what they perceived as inaction by the administration when it came to racial equality.

Pierce Hall looms in the background as officers form a line outside President Sponberg’s West Forest Avenue home.

Protestors were organized and purposeful in the aftermath of the arrests.

EMU students rallied in support of the 14 who were arrested, boycotting classes to voice their displeasure.

EMU students rallied in support of the 14 who were arrested, boycotting classes to voice their displeasure.

EMU students rallied in support of the 14 who were arrested, boycotting classes to voice their displeasure.

EMU students rallied in support of the 14 who were arrested, boycotting classes to voice their displeasure.