Gloria Steinem, feminist icon and journalist, dies at 92

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American journalist, activist and feminist Gloria Steinem in her New York City apartment, 2nd November 1990. (Photo by Barbara Alper/Getty Images)

Gloria Steinem, the pioneering feminist writer, journalist and activist who became one of the most recognizable voices of the women’s rights movement in the United States, has died at 92. 

What we know:

Steinem died peacefully at her home in New York City, surrounded by people close to her, according to a statement posted to her official Instagram account. The statement said she continued working for equality until the end of her life. A cause of death was not immediately disclosed. 

What they're saying:

"Gloria’s greatest gift was her ability to listen to others, to make others feel seen and heard," the Instagram post read. "Her words, actions, and example gave people permission to be their truest selves. Gloria lived true to her independent spirit, always with curiosity and a great sense of humor."

The backstory:

Gloria Steinem was born on March 25, 1934 in Toledo, Ohio. Her parents divorced when she was young, and she was in the care of her mother.

She co-founded Ms. Magazine in 1972, helping create a national publication devoted to women’s issues at a time when discussions about gender discrimination, reproductive rights and workplace equality were increasingly entering the American mainstream. 

Steinem also became known for journalism that put her directly into the experiences she was reporting. In 1963, she worked undercover as a Playboy Bunny at a New York City club and wrote about the working conditions she encountered in an investigation that helped establish her reputation as an investigative journalist. 

Big picture view:

Along with her activism, she helped organize political and social movements focused on women's rights and became one of the foremost voices for the Equal Rights Amendment, reproductive freedom and equality for all. 

Steinem did not birth any children, but in 2000 married British activist and businessman David Bale, becoming stepmother to his son, actor Christian Bale.