The death of Gloria Steinem at the age of 92 prompted numerous tributes from prominent figures in politics, culture, and activism in the United States, who remembered her as a pillar in the fight for women’s rights and a key influence for generations of activists.
Steinem passed away on Wednesday, September 2, at her home in New York, according to her foundation, the Gloria Foundation, which announced the news via social media, without specifying the cause of death. The post mentioned: “Gloria’s greatest gift was her ability to listen to others, to make them feel understood and heard. Her words, actions, and example gave people permission to be themselves.”
Among the tributes made, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton noted that Steinem “opened doors not just for herself, but for millions of women who followed her.” Clinton added that her activism was instrumental in significant advances such as Title IX and the Roe v. Wade decision, citing Steinem’s optimistic nature as fundamental to her work.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris remembered her as “a pioneering activist, organizer, and journalist,” emphasizing that her own presidential candidacy was made possible by the path opened by Steinem and other leaders. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also honored her as a “fearless pioneer who transformed the struggle for equality in the United States.”
Additionally, former First Lady Jill Biden stated that Steinem understood that equality begins with the freedom to make decisions about “our own bodies, health, and futures,” highlighting her decades-long struggle for this reality.
In a more personal tone, Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, praised Steinem’s work as “a friend and mentor,” recalling her generosity in difficult times. Actress Julianne Moore, who portrayed her in a film, mentioned that learning her story provided her with significant guidance on how she wanted to act.
Other icons, such as Oprah Winfrey, highlighted Steinem’s lasting impact on the progress of women’s rights. Melinda French Gates commented that generational change results from leaders like Steinem who build lasting movements.
The legacy of Gloria Steinem continues to resonate through the voices of those who knew her and were inspired by her work, marking a path in the advocacy for women’s rights that remains relevant today.
Source: www.infobae.com