Gloria Steinem Dies at 92: Feminist Icon and Ms. Magazine Co-Founder Remembered

 New York, September 4, 2026 — Gloria Steinem, the influential American journalist, author and feminist activist who helped shape the modern U.S. women's movement, has died at the age of 92.

Steinem died on September 2 at her home in New York City, according to a statement shared by her foundation and her official social media accounts. The statement said she passed away peacefully surrounded by people who loved her. A cause of death was not disclosed.

Her death brings to an end a remarkable public career spanning more than six decades.

Gloria Steinem's Career and Legacy

Born in Toledo, Ohio, in 1934, Steinem initially built her career as a journalist before becoming one of the most recognizable leaders of the U.S. women's movement.

She became especially prominent during the late 1960s and 1970s as discussions about women's equality, workplace rights and reproductive rights gained national attention.

Steinem was a co-founder of Ms. Magazine, which became an important publication in the feminist movement. She also helped establish the National Women's Political Caucus and several organizations focused on women's rights and equality.

Why Gloria Steinem Was So Influential

Steinem used journalism, public speaking and organizing to bring women's issues into mainstream American conversations.

Her work addressed topics including:

Women's equality

Workplace discrimination

Reproductive rights

Political participation

Civil rights

Social and economic equality

She continued speaking, writing and participating in public discussions well into her later years.

Presidential Medal of Freedom

In 2013, President Barack Obama awarded Gloria Steinem the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States.

The award recognized her decades of work advocating for women's rights and equality.

Tributes After Her Death

Tributes began appearing across the United States after news of Steinem's death became public.

Political leaders, activists, entertainers and other prominent figures remembered her influence and her long commitment to equality.

Hillary Clinton, Oprah Winfrey, Kamala Harris and Jane Fonda were among those who reflected on Steinem's impact and legacy.

A Life That Changed American History

Steinem's influence went far beyond journalism. She became a symbol of the women's movement and helped create organizations and publications that continued working on issues of equality for generations.

Her books, essays, interviews and public appearances introduced millions of Americans to debates surrounding gender equality and social change.

She also became one of the most recognizable public figures associated with modern feminism, often appearing at rallies, college campuses and community events across the country.

Gloria Steinem's Lasting Legacy

Although opinions about Steinem and the feminist movement sometimes differed, there is little question that she played a major role in American social history.

Her organizations, journalism and advocacy helped influence generations of women and activists.

Gloria Steinem died at 92 in New York City on September 2, 2026. Her cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.

For many Americans, her name will remain closely connected with the long struggle for women's equality and the transformation of American society during the second half of the 20th century.

Sources: Reuters, Associated Press, CBS News and The Washington