Hillary Clinton mourned Gloria Steinem following the groundbreaking feminist icon’s death at 92. Clinton remembered Steinem as an “architect” of women’s equality. She also reflected on Steinem’s lasting influence on generations of women. Clinton urged young women to continue fighting for equality.
Hillary Clinton honoured Gloria Steinem as an “architect” of women’s equality.
Clinton discussed Steinem’s legacy during an appearance on CBS Mornings. The former Secretary of State said she was “heartsick” over Steinem’s death. She remembered first discovering the activist during the 1960s and 1970s.
“I think back to my first awareness of Gloria way back in the 1960s,” Clinton said. She recalled Steinem speaking about women’s equal opportunities. Clinton said Steinem encouraged women to pursue their dreams.
Steinem co-founded Ms. magazine and became a leading feminist activist. Clinton credited the publication with helping women understand inequality. She said Steinem made those restrictions more visible across society.
“I lived it,” Clinton said while discussing discrimination against women. However, she said the experience became more widely understood through Steinem’s activism. Clinton described Steinem as “one of the architects of the entire structure of women’s equality.”
Clinton also remembered spending time with Steinem personally. She said she visited Steinem at home last year. The pair reportedly had what Clinton called “the most incredible conversation.”
Despite ongoing challenges, Clinton said Steinem remained optimistic. She described that optimism as central to Steinem’s activism. Clinton also called it a “moral choice” Steinem made every day.
Clinton pointed to several areas shaped by Steinem’s advocacy. She mentioned opportunities for women in education, sports and politics. Clinton also highlighted Steinem’s influence around reproductive rights.
“She wasn’t going to be an astronaut, but my goodness, she made it possible for Sally Ride to be an astronaut,” Clinton said. She also praised Steinem’s support for women who helped pass Title IX.
Clinton said Steinem ultimately “embodied possibility.” She encouraged young women to carry that message forward. Clinton urged them not to become discouraged by setbacks.
“Find ways to reach out and lift others,” Clinton said. She added that supporting others could expand their own worlds.
Steinem’s death was announced by the Gloria Steinem Foundation. She was 92 when she died on Wednesday.
