Parton, Steinem: One fight, two ways

Gloria Steinem and Dolly Parton passed away just eight days apart, leaving many in shock and mourning. These two women represented two very different approaches to the core proposition that women should know themselves well enough to make their own decisions, both privately and publicly. Steinem was explicit in her political beliefs, while Parton took a more indirect route, becoming a storyteller who made room for everyone, while still declining to identify as a feminist.

Steinem championed women's rights through founding Ms Magazine and persuading women to support each other, while Parton used her music to address issues like teenage pregnancy, abortion, and equal pay, without embracing political labels or affiliations. Even as the feminist movement has since fragmented and faced challenges, both women's legacies remain vital reminders of the importance of women being empowered to make their own choices and decisions.