Gloria Steinem, Iconic Feminist Activist and Ms. Magazine Co-founder, Dies at 92
SCMP · 2 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Gloria Steinem, the celebrated feminist activist who became one of the most visible symbols and voices of the American women's movement, died Wednesday at her home in New York City at age 92 . Steinem, co-founder of Ms. Magazine, was known for her trademark streaked hair parted down the middle and large aviator glasses . Over her six-decade career, she traveled extensively speaking at college campuses, community centers, rallies, and marches, becoming a hugely recognizable presence in American public life . Her foundation announced her death on social media, describing her as someone who gave people "permission to be their truest selves" .
Key Points
- Gloria Steinem died on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at her Manhattan home in New York City at age 92
- She was co-founder of Ms. Magazine, one of the most influential feminist publications in American history
- Steinem began her career as a journalist, notably undercover in 1963 reporting on conditions at Hugh Hefner's Playboy empire
- A 1969 speak-out on abortion rights transformed her career path; she had undergone a secret illegal abortion herself at age 22
- She recently completed a memoir scheduled for release in fall 2026 and hosted talking circles for hundreds in her Manhattan home
- Friend Abigail Disney described her as "just as funny and just as sharp as I have ever known her" in her final days
Why It Matters
Steinem's death marks the end of an era for global feminism, as she was among the last of the second-wave feminist movement's most prominent leaders . Her advocacy work, particularly on reproductive rights and gender equality, influenced generations of activists worldwide, and her ability to connect with people through direct conversation set a model for grassroots organizing that remains relevant today .
Steinem's death marks the end of an era for global feminism, as she was among the last of the second-wave feminist movement's most prominent leaders . Her advocacy work, particularly on reproductive rights and gender equality, influenced generations of activists worldwide, and her ability to connect with people through direct conversation set a model for grassroots organizing that remains relevant today .