She died peacefully on Thursday at her New York City home, surrounded by family and friends. In her final years she devoted herself to two passions: writing and being part of a supportive community.

Steinem helped build the feminist movement from the ground up. She co‑founded New York and Ms. magazines, the National Women’s Political Caucus, the Ms. Foundation for Women, the Women’s Media Center and several other organizations that still shape gender‑equality debates today.

Her contributions were recognized nationally; President Barack Obama awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013, and the National Civil Rights Museum gave her its Freedom Award in 2019.

Even at 91, she co‑authored the picture book “Rise, Girl, Rise: Our Sister‑Friend Journey,” released in February 2026, showing that activism can evolve with new generations.

Steinem’s own words describe her greatest gift as the ability to listen, to make others feel seen and heard. By building community, listening deeply, and persisting in advocacy, she created a model that turns ideas into lasting change.