Gloria Steinem, the renowned feminist activist and writer, passed away on September 2, 2023, at the age of 92. News of her death was shared via a post on her official Instagram account, where it was stated that she “passed away peacefully at her home in New York City, surrounded by some of the many who loved her.” Steinem has left an indelible mark on the feminist movement through her extensive advocacy and impactful journalism spanning several decades.
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Born on 25 March 1934, Steinem experienced the repercussions of sexism and gender discrimination early in life, particularly while caring for her mother during her parents’ divorce. In her 2015 memoir, *My Life on The Road*, she described the torment her mother faced due to mental illness, a struggle that shaped Steinem’s understanding of social injustices. Her mother, Ruth Steinem, had her own fires of activism extinguished by the societal constraints of the era, a legacy that profoundly influenced Gloria’s commitment to championing women’s rights.
Steinem’s professional journey began after she graduated from Smith College in 1956. She ventured into journalism and gained widespread recognition with her articles that dismantled societal norms surrounding women’s issues. One of her early notable pieces, “The Moral Disarmament of Betty Coed,” published in Esquire in 1962, explored the attitudes towards contraception during the rise of the birth control pill. Following this, she famously went undercover at Hugh Hefner’s Playboy Club, resulting in the provocative expose “I Was a Playboy Bunny,” which examined the exploitation of women within the famed establishment.
Her writing profoundly impacted the feminist discourse of the time, leading her to participate in a pivotal speak-out event in New York City. At this gathering, women shared their personal experiences with healthcare access and abortion rights, solidifying Steinem’s resolve to advocate for women’s autonomy. This moment, which she referred to as the “big click,” marked a turning point that guided her further into the feminist cause.
In 1972, Steinem co-founded *Ms.*, the first feminist magazine in the United States, where she served as editor for 15 years. This publication became a cornerstone of feminist journalism, championing women’s voices and issues. Additionally, she co-founded several organisations focused on women’s rights, including the Women’s Media Center and the Coalition of Labor Union Women, reflecting her unwavering dedication to creating equality across various social arenas.
Steinem’s activism extended beyond mere advocacy; she actively campaigned for the Equal Rights Amendment, testifying before the United States Senate in 1970. Her contributions to this initiative were later depicted in the FX miniseries *Mrs. America*, where she was portrayed by actress Rose Byrne. Additionally, her life was chronicled in the 2020 film *The Glorias*, featuring renowned actresses such as Julianne Moore and Alicia Vikander showcasing the different stages of her remarkable journey.
A strong proponent of intersectionality, Steinem consistently argued that racial justice must be intertwined with gender equality. She condemned the notion of “white feminism” in a 2017 interview, asserting that true feminism must encompass the experiences and struggles of all women. Reflecting on contemporary feminist movements, she noted in her 2019 book *The Truth Will Set You Free But First It’ll Piss You Off!* that women were increasingly recognising their right to autonomy over their own bodies.
Throughout her career, Steinem was honoured for her lifetime achievements, including receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama in 2013. He described her as a “champion noticer,” someone who brought attention to the many injustices women faced simply because of their gender. This recognition was a testament to her influence not only in the United States but globally.
In later years, Steinem formed a notable friendship with Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex. Their collaboration began in 2020 as they worked together to encourage voter registration, further highlighting Steinem’s influence on a new generation of activists. Despite once expressing wariness towards marriage, she married David Bale in 2000, forming a partnership that lasted until his death in 2003.
Steinem is survived by her legacy of activism that continues to inspire generations. Her dedication to fighting for equal rights, her impactful writing, and her unwavering advocacy for women’s issues have cemented her position as a significant figure in the history of feminism.
Gloria Steinem’s remarkable journey will continue to resonate, serving as a guiding light for those who strive for justice, equality, and empowerment in an ever-evolving world.