Hearing Silences is a short documentary that chronicles the experiences of Black women faculty at Northwestern University over the past five decades. Beginning with trailblazers like Joyce Hughes, the first Black woman to earn tenure at Northwestern in 1979, the film delves into the challenges and triumphs these pioneering educators faced as they navigated academia. Through personal interviews and archival footage, Hearing Silences sheds light on their resilience, contributions, and the lasting impact they’ve made across university departments and campuses. This documentary not only celebrates their legacy but also serves as a testament to the ongoing journey toward equity and representation in higher education.