The feminist organiser and her everyday rebellions

Gloria Steinem, a prominent feminist organizer, was known for her doings and activism. She hosted gatherings called Talking Circles at her New York home, where people engaged in both activism and community building. Steinem's journey began in India after her graduation from Smith College in 1956, where she spent time with Ruchira Gupta, founder of Apne Aap Women Worldwide, a non-profit fighting against sex trafficking.

Steinem chaired Apne Aap’s advisory board, and Gupta considered her a "third parent". Gupta described their relationship as starting in the 1990s, when Steinem visited Delhi slums to discuss abortion, inspiring Gupta and connecting with women's experiences. Steinem co-edited As if Women Matter: The Essential Gloria Steinem Reader, and wrote nine books, including The Truth Will Set You Free, But First it Will Piss You Off! and her memoir, An Unexpected Life.

She also founded and edited Ms. magazine, a publication that gained international recognition. Known as a feminist, Steinem debunked misconceptions about humorless and dowdy feminists, and inspired confidence in women. In 2007, Steinem spoke at the Network of Women in Media, India, where she engaged with community media women, showing her commitment to empowering women.

Steinem believed in women's right to make decisions over their bodies, and reframed abortion as "reproductive freedom". Despite not having widespread influence in India, Steinem's ideas sparked international research. Gupta shared a memory of Steinem's humor, joking about her desire to witness the end of Trump's presidency.