Gloria Steinem, the groundbreaking American journalist, author and activist who became the defining face of second-wave feminism has died at the age of 92.
Remembering a feminist pioneer
Her non-profit organization, Gloria’s Foundation, confirmed that she passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026, at her home in New York City, surrounded by loved ones.
Reflecting on her decades of relentless advocacy for gender equality and civil rights, her foundation shared that “Gloria’s near-century on earth was a life well-lived and she continued working for equality until the very end.”
A legacy in journalism and activism
Steinem first gained prominent national recognition as a journalist. She later co-founded Ms. Magazine in 1971, creating a vital national platform that introduced mainstream readers to feminist perspectives, reproductive rights and systemic gender disparities.
Dedicated to bodily autonomy
Throughout her life, Steinem remained a fierce protector of reproductive freedom social justice.
Reflecting on the ongoing fight for fundamental rights, she famously asserted that “either our control over our own bodies is equal, regardless of sex or race, or we’re not living in a democracy,” a phrase that became a battle cry for modern organizers.
Inspiring generations across the globe
Beyond publishing, Steinem spent decades traveling worldwide to host town halls and organize grassroots efforts. Tributes praising her transformative legacy continue to pour in globally honoring what her foundation highlighted as her greatest impact:
“Gloria’s greatest gift was her ability to listen to others, to make others feel seen and heard.”
