Pioneering feminist activist and journalist Gloria Steinem, who passed away on September 4th at the age of 92, left an indelible mark on movements for equality. Known for her quiet yet commanding presence, Steinem’s clarity of thought and unwavering conviction made her a pivotal leader in the US women’s liberation movement. Despite a confessed lifelong fear of public speaking, she consistently took to the stage, advocating for her beliefs while also expressing a deep aversion to conflict.

The Enduring Power of Physical Presence

In an era increasingly dominated by digital communication, Steinem’s most potent advice, as shared in a memorable interview, centers on the irreplaceable value of physical togetherness: “Get in the room.” This simple yet profound directive underscores the importance of face-to-face interaction, especially for fostering genuine connection and empathy.

Steinem articulated that while technology offers powerful tools for connection and can be essential for many, it also carries inherent risks. She warned against the potential for “slacktivism” – superficial engagement without deep commitment – and the atomization that can occur when interactions are solely mediated through screens. The most significant danger, she believed, lies in the erosion of empathy. Steinem explained that true empathy, the kind that compels us to help someone who has fallen, is intrinsically linked to our physical presence and the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with social bonding and well-being.

“There is no substitute for being in the room. No there is not,” Steinem stated emphatically. “Of course technology is a new event, certainly in my life, at my age. And it’s dangerous because it’s incomplete. And I would say the biggest danger online is that we can’t empathise with each other. We only can truly empathise when we are physically together, otherwise we don’t produce – I believe it’s called oxytocin – which is what we feel when we’re walking on the sidewalk and we see someone falling, we wanna help them, right? That’s empathy, that’s oxytocin.”

Reflections on a Life of Purpose

Steinem’s life was characterized by conscious decisions and a deep engagement with the world. Her journey included a remarkable 1963 investigation for Playboy magazine, her instrumental role in influencing legislation, and her co-founding of Ms. magazine, a groundbreaking publication that gave voice to feminist issues. Her personal choices, such as deciding not to have children, were also part of a life lived with intention.

She often reflected on the idea that each generation of women inherits and lives out the unfulfilled aspirations of their mothers. This sentiment highlights the intergenerational impact of societal expectations and the ongoing struggle for women’s autonomy.

A Final Conversation and Lasting Legacy

In the lead-up to her 90th birthday, Steinem participated in a conversation for BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour, a program she had long admired. The discussion touched upon various themes, including aging, campaigning, politics, and friendship. Steinem noted that reaching 90 did not feel drastically different from her 50s or 60s, reflecting a continued vitality and engagement with life.

When asked about the future focus of the women’s movement, Steinem’s response was characteristically direct and empowering: “Anything they damn well please.” This declaration encapsulated her belief in the autonomy and diverse priorities of contemporary feminists, acknowledging the battles she had fought while championing the freedom of future generations to define their own agendas.

Steinem expressed a profound love for life, stating, “I don’t want to leave.” Her enduring spirit and the wisdom she imparted continue to resonate, particularly her call to action: “Get in the room.” This advice serves as a powerful reminder of the fundamental human need for connection and the unique strength found in collective, physical presence.

In honoring her memory, the sentiment often expressed in Jewish tradition – “May her memory be a blessing” – is fitting. Gloria Steinem’s legacy is one of fearless advocacy, intellectual rigor, and an unwavering commitment to fostering a more equitable world, urging us all to connect, engage, and truly be present for one another.