Gloria Steinem, Pioneering Feminist Activist and Writer, Dies at 92

Gloria Steinem, the influential feminist activist, writer and co-founder of Ms. magazine, has died at 92.

Steinem died peacefully at her home in New York City on Wednesday, Sept. 2, surrounded by people close to her, according to a joint statement posted on her Instagram account and by Gloria’s Foundation. The statement said she continued working for equality until the end of her life.

Born March 25, 1934, Steinem became one of the most prominent voices of the women’s liberation movement. After graduating from Smith College in 1956, she moved to New York City and began a career in journalism.

Her early reporting examined issues affecting women, including contraception and workplace exploitation. In 1963, she went undercover as a Playboy Bunny and wrote about her experiences for Show magazine. The resulting article, “I Was a Playboy Bunny,” became one of her best-known works.

Steinem’s commitment to feminism deepened after attending a 1960s speak-out where women publicly discussed their experiences with abortion and healthcare. She later described the experience as the “big click” that strengthened her dedication to the movement.

In 1972, Steinem co-founded Ms. magazine, which became a leading publication of the feminist movement. She also helped establish organizations including the Women’s Action Alliance, the National Women’s Political Caucus, the Coalition of Labor Union Women and the Women’s Media Center.

A longtime supporter of the Equal Rights Amendment, Steinem testified before the U.S. Senate in 1970. Her activism also extended to racial equality and LGBTQ+ rights. She argued that feminism had to address inequality affecting women across race and other social divisions.

Steinem remained active for decades, writing books and speaking about gender equality, reproductive rights and political participation. In 2013, President Barack Obama awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her lifetime of activism.

In later years, Steinem also worked with Meghan Markle on a 2020 voter-participation campaign.

Steinem married environmentalist and businessman David Bale in 2000. Bale, the father of actor Christian Bale, died from brain lymphoma in 2003 at age 62.

Steinem is survived by a legacy that helped shape modern feminism and American political activism. Her foundation said she spent her final years writing and staying connected with her community.

The family said Steinem requested that people wishing to honor her make a donation to Gloria’s Foundation instead of sending flowers.