This is the Gloria Steinem I remember. A fierce advocate for all women and girls. A woman who seemed fearless and kind. There are myriad things to be inspired by in Gloria’s life, but here are the four that stand out for me most right now as I process this news.
Don’t be afraid.
From her work as a journalist in exposing Hugh Hefner’s Playboy empire to her standing up for abortion rights, Gloria was at the forefront, putting her literal body on the line. She knew that change could only happen if you took to the streets.
Never give up.
For more than six decades, Gloria carried on her advocacy work in the face of an every changing political and social landscape. That longevity is truly inspiring to girls and women who grew up with her as a constant presence, doing this work.
Speak truth to power with humor.
Gloria’s book, The Truth Will Set You Free, But First It Will Piss You Off!, is a great example of how she used her wit to diffuse, empower, and illuminate ideas and situations. She saw beauty in so much of this ugly world.
Use your platform.
Founding Ms. magazine to give women and feminism a platform in 1972 made her a global champion and symbol of the movement for equality and equity. And in the year before her death, she published a children’s book along with Leymah Gbowee, Liberian peace activist and Nobel laureate, to inspire girls around the world to Rise, Girl, Rise: Our Sister-Friend Journey. Together for All. She never stopped writing and using her voice to lift up and move forward.
The light that Gloria shone was one for us all to follow, whether she is here or not. It is now officially the season of lost icons. This trend will continue at pace and indefinitely. We must now be prepared to carry more torches than we have arms, so we must do it together.
-Ashley E. Remer
Head Girl
Girl Museum