Gloria Steinem remained steadfast in her desire not to have any children until the very end.
The American journalist and social activist was a nationally recognized leader of second-wave feminism in the United States in the late 60s and early 70s after she published her famous article “After Black Power, Women’s Liberation.”
Steinem died on Wednesday at the age of 92. While the cause of her death is not known, she reportedly passed away peacefully in her New York home.
5In 2025, the activist shared that although she admired women who had children, especially those who were doing it by themselves, she was comfortable with her own choice to be childless.
“Especially, I admire women who have raised children, maybe not with the equal help of men frequently,” Steinem confessed. “I have not had to do that, and I think that is huge.”
When asked if she had any regrets on the topic, the women’s rights advocate said she did not. She recalled taking care of her mother, who was not well, while growing up, explaining how it influenced her decision.
“I’ve noticed that other people who were small people looking after big people don’t want to do it again, even though it’s unrealistic as a measure of having children,” Steinem said in an interview.
The cultural icon had previously spoken on this decision. People Magazine reported that in 2016, she declared she had no remorse about her childlessness for a “millisecond.” In her words:
“Not for a millisecond, I have to say. I mean, it’s a choice. And it’s a wonderful choice. But if everybody has to do it, it’s no longer a choice.”
5Her confidence in choosing a child-free life reflects the message she left to fans in her final remarks, urging them to embrace themselves.
As reported by The Blast, Steinem, in an interview for Netflix, gave her parting words to the world, championing individuality and how media can be used as a tool.
“I wish I could meet each one of you in person, but in a way, this is what allows us now to see each other’s lives, to influence each other’s lives, to respect each other, and to, therefore, perpetuate what we hope is a global democracy,” she shared.
Gloria Steinem Shared Her Thoughts On Her Feminist Legacy
5During the interview, Steinem also pushed back against the narrative that followed her entire career. According to the icon, the feminist movement had evolved to become so diverse that she couldn’t be the center of it entirely.
She speculated that her importance in the feminist movement might be tied to the fact that she had outlived a lot of other activists and had kept the wheels turning on activism for a long time.
Steinem emphasized the importance of belonging to a community and recognizing emerging perspectives within social movements, not making an idol of someone.
Hillary Clinton Was ‘Heartsick’ At Gloria Steinem’s Passing
5While Steinem took a humble approach to her feminist legacy, she seemed to have had a profound impact on the world, including prominent figures like former first lady Hilary Clinton.
In a heartfelt tribute, the politician shared how her close friend’s vision inspired many to challenge institutional barriers and pursue equal opportunity, per The Blast.
“I’m heartsick, as I think everyone who not only knew her, but followed her, was inspired and challenged by her,” Clinton shared, reflecting on her own early adulthood and the impression the feminist had on her.
She described Steinem as an incredibly smart, beautiful, and talented woman.
Meghan Markle Shared An Emotional Tribute To Gloria Steinem
5The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, also shared a deeply emotional post about Steinem on her Instagram following her passing.
Markle praised the personal bond she shared with the activist, both publicly and privately, which began after the royal moved to California from the United Kingdom.
The Blast reported that Megahan shared a quote from Steinem that stuck with her, which read “We are linked, not ranked,” adding that she proudly wore the bracelet Steinem gave her.
