Gloria Steinem, the pioneering women’s rights activist who became one of the most recognizable voices of the feminist movement beginning in the 1960s, died at age 92 this week, prompting an outpouring of tributes from political leaders, activists, celebrities and generations of women influenced by her work, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who described herself as “heartsick” over the loss.
Clinton and Steinem had maintained a relationship that extended far beyond political circles, with their connection deepening over decades as both women worked toward expanding opportunities and equality in American society. The death of a longtime friend and influential figure prompted Clinton to reflect publicly on their final visit together and the profound impact Steinem’s activism had on her own life and career.
What Happened
Steinem rose to prominence during the 1960s and 1970s, when she challenged traditional expectations surrounding women’s roles and advocated for greater equality across American institutions. Through her writing, activism and public speaking, she became a defining voice for a generation seeking fundamental change in how society viewed women’s opportunities and rights.
Beyond her speeches and activism, Steinem co-founded Ms. magazine, which became an influential platform for feminist writing and commentary. The publication provided space for voices that mainstream media had long excluded, helping shape how millions of women understood their own experiences and aspirations.
Clinton’s career unfolded within the changing landscape that activists like Steinem helped create. She became a lawyer, first lady, U.S. senator, secretary of state and eventually the first woman nominated for president by a major U.S. political party—a path that would have been far more difficult without the groundwork laid by Steinem’s generation.
The Reaction
Clinton’s public tribute moved beyond professional accomplishments to honor the person behind the public image. She spoke about remembering Steinem not only as a famous activist but as a friend whose presence throughout her own adult life carried deep personal significance.
The death of someone who has been woven throughout one’s career creates a powerful sense of time passing. For Clinton, mourning Steinem meant looking back at decades of political and social change, from the early days of the modern women’s movement through to contemporary debates about women’s equality and representation.
Clinton’s emotional response reflected something deeper than a headline-ready moment. It captured the human dimension of historical change—the relationships, conversations and people who encourage others to imagine a different future. Steinem had been one of those people for Clinton and for countless others.
What This Means
The women’s movement has evolved significantly since Steinem first became nationally prominent in the 1960s. Some battles won through her activism have been settled; others remain active areas of political and social debate. Steinem’s death therefore represents both a personal loss and the closing of an important chapter in American history.
Yet Steinem’s influence continues through the women who grew up reading her work, hearing her speeches or encountering her activism. Those ideas have traveled into politics, journalism, business, education and countless other fields, shaping how successive generations approach questions of equality and opportunity.
The sadness surrounding Steinem’s death is inseparable from appreciation for the life she lived and the changes she helped inspire. Although she is gone, the issues she spent her life discussing remain part of public conversation. For generations of women, Steinem’s voice remains part of the history she helped create—and that legacy, as Clinton’s tribute underscored, extends far beyond any single political moment or campaign.
