Gloria Steinem, the influential journalist and activist who became a central figure in the fight for women's rights, has died at the age of 92. Her foundation confirmed that she passed away peacefully at her New York City home on Wednesday, surrounded by loved ones.

Born in Toledo, Ohio, in 1934, Steinem’s path to activism was influenced by her early experiences, including two years spent in India after university where she supported grassroots protests. She began her professional career as a freelance writer in New York during the 1960s, gaining prominence for an exposé on the working conditions of Playboy Bunnies. In 1972, she co-founded Ms. magazine, a publication that challenged the era's traditional focus on domesticity and beauty by centering on women's issues.

Throughout her career, Steinem was a vocal advocate for reproductive rights, equal pay, and the legalization of same-sex marriage. She also co-founded the Women's Action Alliance to combat sexism. Her dedication to social justice was recognized in 2013 when President Barack Obama presented her with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the United States' highest civilian honor.

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Tributes have emerged from across the public sphere. Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton described Steinem as an "architect" of women's equality, noting that her activism was "rooted in optimism." Meghan Markle, who considered Steinem a mentor and friend, praised her personal warmth and guidance, sharing that Steinem often reminded her that "we are linked, not ranked."

Steinem remained active in her final years, hosting "Talking Circles" at her home and continuing her writing. Her foundation noted that she was working on a forthcoming book titled An Unexpected Life at the time of her death. Regarding her personal life, Steinem married entrepreneur David Bale in 2000; he passed away three years later. When asked about her shift in perspective on marriage, she famously stated, "I didn't change. Marriage changed."

Source: BBC News