US feminist icon Gloria Steinem dies at 92

American journalist, activist and feminist icon Gloria Steinem has died at the age of 92, according to her foundation. Steinem passed away peacefully at her New York City home on Thursday, surrounded by loved ones. The cause of death has not been specified.

Steinem's journey into the women's rights movement began in the 1960s when she ventured into journalism. During this time, she wrote an exposé on the sexism experienced by cocktail waitresses working at New York's Playboy Club. Steinem credited a 1969 meeting where women discussed the issue of abortion for awakening her feminist perspective. She transitioned from writing to public speaking, dedicating her life to advocating for equality.

Throughout the 1970s, Steinem founded Ms. Magazine and the National Women's Political Caucus, as well as organized the first National Women's Conference in Houston. For nearly a century, Steinem traveled across the US and the world, participating in conferences and protests. Her foundation noted that Steinem remained committed to equality until her very last days.

Gloria Steinem's greatest gift was her ability to listen and make others feel seen and heard. She lived true to her independent spirit, always with a curiosity and a great sense of humor.