NEW YORK; Gloria Steinem, the celebrated author, journalist, and activist who became one of the most recognizable figures and influential voices of the U.S. women’s movement, has died at the age of 92.
Steinem passed away peacefully at her home in New York City on Wednesday, September 2, surrounded by loved ones, according to statements published on her and her foundation’s social media channels.
“Gloria’s greatest gift was her ability to listen to others, to make others feel seen and heard,” the foundation shared in a statement. “Her words, actions, and example gave people permission to be their truest selves. Gloria lived true to her independent spirit, always with curiosity and a great sense of humor.”
With her trademark streaked hair parted down the middle and large aviator glasses, Steinem was a hugely recognizable presence across campuses, community centers, rallies, and marches.
Though she was best known for public speaking and campaigning, Steinem began her career as a journalist. In 1963, she gained national prominence with an undercover assignment reporting on degrading working conditions at Hugh Hefner’s Playboy Club—a job she later came to regret.
Her trajectory shifted dramatically in 1969 after attending a speak-out where women spoke openly about abortion rights. Steinem, who had undergone a secret, illegal abortion herself at age 22, pinpointed that moment as the start of her lifetime of activism.
“Either our control over our own bodies is equal, regardless of sex or race, or we’re not living in a democracy,” she reflected in 2022 following the reversal of Roe v. Wade.
Despite becoming one of the most prominent leaders of second-wave feminism, Steinem frequently spoke about having to overcome a profound fear of public speaking. She noted that she originally preferred to stay behind the keyboard, but turned to public speaking because mainstream editors at the time refused to publish stories about the women’s movement.
In 1971, Steinem helped establish the National Women’s Political Caucus. The following year, she co-founded Ms. Magazine, serving as a platform to cover topics long ignored by mainstream media, including equal pay, reproductive rights, domestic abuse, and sexual harassment.
Steinem’s high visibility made her a target for critics, ranging from political figures like President Richard Nixon to hostile commentary on television programs. Yet she met opposition with sharp wit—famous for explaining her decision to stay single until age 66 by saying, “I can’t mate in captivity.”
Her activism never wavered into her later years. Well into her 80s and 90s, she continued to travel, write, and hold “talking circles” in her home to mentor and listen to younger generations. In 2013, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama.
Steinem had been actively writing and spending time in the community until her final days. Her death comes just before the planned release of her new memoir later this month.
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