Gloria Steinem, Feminist Icon, Passes Away at 92

Activist and writer Gloria Steinem, known for her pivotal role in the second wave of feminism during the 1960s and 70s, has died at the age of 92, as shared in a statement on her Instagram account.

Steinem dedicated many years to championing equality through her work as a writer, lecturer, and feminist leader. She traveled extensively to speak about issues like sexual harassment and domestic violence, and was often seen as a leading voice in the movement.

Recognizable by her distinct streaked hair and iconic aviator glasses, Steinem became a significant figure in American journalism after co-founding Ms. magazine, which aimed to address important topics such as the Equal Rights Amendment.

Launched in the 1970s, Ms. magazine was created at a time when women’s issues were largely overlooked by mainstream media, which tended to focus on superficial advice such as beauty tips and finding a partner.

In her Instagram statement, it was noted that Steinem passed away peacefully at her home in New York City, surrounded by loved ones.

“Yesterday, Gloria Steinem passed away peacefully at her home in New York City, surrounded by some of the many who loved her,” the statement read. “Gloria’s near-century on earth was filled with purpose, and she remained committed to the fight for equality until the very end.”

“Her greatest gift was her ability to listen, making others feel acknowledged and understood,” the statement continued. “Her words and actions inspired many to embrace their true selves. Gloria embodied an independent spirit, paired with a curious mind and a wonderful sense of humor.”

The statement also mentioned that in her later years, Steinem focused on two of her greatest passions: engaging with communities and writing.

“Gloria cherished the tradition of lighting signal fires on hills, illuminating the path forward. By lighting your own candle in her memory, you become part of this global community,” it added.

Born on March 25, 1934, in Toledo, Ohio, Steinem spent much of her childhood traveling with her parents as her father worked as a traveling antique dealer. She was mostly self-taught, immersing herself in books. As she once told a crowd, “I just read everything I could get my hands on.”

In 1957, she broke off an engagement to take a fellowship in India, eventually moving to New York City to kickstart her journalism career, as noted by the Associated Press.

In the early 1960s, she often faced frustration, as editors typically assigned her to cover lifestyle topics instead of political stories. She frequently joked about being given an assignment on textured stockings, recalling it as “the low point of my life.”

Steinem illustrated the sexism of her time through one encounter with an editor who presented her with a choice: join him for “fun” in a hotel room or deliver his letters. She chose to walk away and deliver the letters instead, later reflecting, “There was no term for sexual harassment then. It was just life.”

It wasn’t until 2000, when she was 66, that Steinem married British activist David Bale, the father of actor Christian Bale. Tragically, he passed away from brain lymphoma just three years later, and she cared for him through his illness.

Steinem authored several renowned books, such as “My Life on the Road,” “Revolution from Within,” and “Outrageous Acts and Everyday Rebellions.” Beyond her writing, she co-founded significant organizations like the Ms. Foundation for Women and the Women’s Media Center, alongside global initiatives like Equality Now and Direct Impact Africa.

In recognition of her contributions, Steinem received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama in 2013, followed by the Freedom Award from the National Civil Rights Museum in 2019.