Steinem’s life a lesson in audacity, generosity, courage

Gloria Steinem, the pioneering American journalist and feminist activist, died at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of audacity, generosity, and courage. In 1969, Steinem attended a "speak out" in New York's Greenwich Village where women discussed their illegal abortions. This event marked a turning point for Steinem, awakening her to systemic sexism and misogyny.

She felt a "big click," a sense of injustice that would stay with her for the rest of her life. Despite being dismissed as a "girl reporter" at the beginning of her career, Steinem persevered. She wrote exposing essays and columns, co-founded Ms. magazine, and fought for reproductive freedom, equal pay, workplace rights, and against domestic violence and workplace sexual harassment.

Steinem's approach was always about connection and community. She hosted salons in her brownstone for decades, bringing together diverse groups of women from all walks of life to discuss everything from sex to the state of feminism. By creating a space for in-person connection and intentional conversation, Steinem embodied the power of activism beyond the digital realm.

In the face of increasing threats to women's rights and freedoms, Steinem's work remains relevant and inspiring. As we navigate an era of relentless individualism and optimization, we can learn from Steinem's example by recognizing our interconnectedness and the strength that comes from collective action. We must stay angry, feel the big click, and continue fighting for progress.

In doing so, we honor Steinem's legacy and ensure that her audacity, generosity, and courage continue to light the way forward for generations to come.