Legendary feminist Gloria Steinem dies at 92
Legendary U.S. feminist activist and journalist Dr. Gloria Steinem, whose work helped launch the women’s liberation movement in the 1970s, passed away peacefully at her New York home surrounded by friends and family.
The Steinem Foundation announced: “She passed away peacefully at her home in New York on Wednesday, surrounded by many who loved her.” She was 92, the age at which she died. Steinem’s pioneering journalism began with a “Playboy Bunny” exposé and led to founding Ms. Magazine in 1972, a publication that shifted women’s narrative beyond domestic topics. She was a forceful advocate of reproductive rights – personally taking an illegal abortion in London in 1965 – and celebrated the Supreme Court’s 1973 Roe v Wade decision, only to witness its later reversal, lamenting the return of a “paternalistic” era. Her moral compass also pushed for same‑sex marriage, equal pay and against the death penalty and female genital mutilation.
In her later years she continued to host “Talking Circles” and write books, welcoming guests into her home for community gatherings.
"Gloria’s greatest gift was her ability to listen to others, to make others feel seen and heard. Her words, actions and example gave people permission to be their truest selves. She lived with independence, curiosity and a great sense of humor. “ – Steinem Foundation
Prominent figures expressed their admiration. Meghan Markle posted a tribute, highlighting how Steinem guided her privately and how the friendship shaped Markle’s own advocacy. Hillary Clinton celebrated Steinem as an architect of women’s equality, noting her optimism and daily moral choices. Millions of followers worldwide flooded social media with memories, underscoring Steinem’s impact on the lives of countless activists.
Her legacy will persist through her foundation’s work and her forthcoming book, An Unexpected Life, which a foundation spokesperson said will ripple across generations. Gloria Steinem’s voice, vision, and activism has left indelible marks on feminism, social justice and the culture of the United States and beyond.
