Gloria Steinem, a prominent figure in the U.S. women’s movement and an unwavering advocate for feminist causes, has died at 92 in her New York City home. Known for her distinctive style, including streaked hair and aviator glasses, Steinem was a co-founder of Ms. Magazine and a recognizable presence throughout her activism career.

Steinem devoted much of her life to advocating for gender equality, addressing audiences at college campuses, community centers, rallies, and marches. According to social media posts by Steinem and her foundation, she was revered for her listening ability and for helping others feel understood. She continued to engage with her community by hosting numerous talking circles in her residence.

“Her words, actions, and example gave people permission to be their truest selves,” stated the social media announcements on her passing.

In recent years, Steinem took pleasure in writing and fostering community dialogue. She had been preparing for the release of a memoir, reflecting on her belief that empathy and understanding require in-person interaction.

Steinem’s career as a journalist included an undercover piece in 1963 on conditions at Playboy, which she later regretted. Her career took a pivotal turn after attending a pro-abortion rights meeting, prompting her transition into activism. Reflecting on Roe v Wade’s reversal, she emphasized the necessity of equal control over one’s body as fundamental to democracy.

Despite a fear of public speaking, Steinem emerged as a public activist due to editors’ lack of interest in publishing pieces on the women’s movement. Her perseverance led to profound social change.

Lifetime of Advocacy and Influence

Steinem’s advocacy continued robustly into her 80s. She traveled globally, speaking out on a range of issues, but always prioritized equality for women. She famously stated that feminism provides a complete perspective on the world.

Her influence spanned across different media, from film to literature. The 2020 feature film, “The Glorias, A Life on The Road,” was based on her memoir and starred Julianne Moore. At 91, she co-authored “Rise, Girl, Rise: Our Sister-Friend Journey. Together for All,” a book aimed at motivating youth to incite change.

Her physical appearance often drew attention, which she felt distracted from her message. She criticized perceptions of her as glamorous or beautiful, insisting they undermined her accomplishments.

Facing Hostility with Wit

Steinem encountered criticism and hostility, but navigated these with humor and resilience. Her early endeavors included co-founding Ms. Magazine in 1972 amidst skepticism from detractors, including President Nixon.

Gloria Steinem was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013 by President Barack Obama, who acknowledged her global impact on women’s respect and opportunities.

Formative Years and Early Challenges

Born in Toledo, Ohio, on March 25, 1934, Steinem’s early life involved itinerant travel with her parents. This unconventional upbringing led to her voracious reading habits and love for cinema.

Her parents divorced in 1944, and she cared for her mother, a former journalist who struggled with mental health challenges. After high school, she attended Smith College but rejected the domestic life expected of women at the time.

Steinem initially faced barriers in journalism, relegated to unsatisfying assignments despite her aspirations to cover politics. A pivotal assignment at Playboy in 1963 tarnished her reputation temporarily but also provided exposure to new opportunities.

Steinem later joined New York magazine’s editorial board, shifting her focus to political writing. A turning point was attending an abortion rights hearing in 1969, catalyzing her activism.

Establishing Feminist Institutions

In 1971, Steinem helped launch the National Women’s Political Caucus, collaborating with figures like Betty Friedan and Bella Abzug. Although initially uncomfortable in public settings, she honed her speaking skills alongside Dorothy Pitman Hughes.

Steinem’s media presence and personal life were often highlighted. Her signature style of streaked hair and aviator glasses became symbolic of her identity as a feminist icon.

Throughout her career, Steinem established several feminist organizations such as the Women’s Action Alliance and the Women’s Media Center. She was instrumental in initiating Take Our Daughters to Work Day.

Never having children, Steinem expressed no regrets, emphasizing the importance of choice. “It’s important that some of us not have children, to show that we have a choice,” she remarked.

Personal Reflections and Later Years

At 66, Steinem married David Bale, whom she met at a fundraiser. They wed in a Cherokee ceremony, and she cared for Bale until his death in 2003. She shared few regrets in life, but lamented not being present for her father’s passing or connecting more deeply with her mother.

Her memoir, “A Life on the Road,” reflects on her experiences, although she humorously noted her lack of driving skills. Throughout her life, she relished engaging with people through travel.

Steinem’s 2017 speech at the Women’s March reinforced her status as a vital voice for women’s rights. Encouraging younger generations to find their identities, she highlighted collective empowerment over individual icons like herself.