Did the original girlboss just check out before finishing her revolution? Because honey, we have some devastating news. Gloria Steinem, the woman who basically invented modern feminism while looking impossibly chic doing it, has passed away. And the entire internet is currently in its collective feels, darling.
The legendary journalist and activist’s death was confirmed through a statement shared via her personal foundation and Instagram account. While the exact cause has not been publicly disclosed at this time, sources close to the situation indicate that updates may follow in coming days. The 88-year-old icon spent decades dismantling the patriarchy, co-founding Ms. Magazine in 1971, and being absolutely unbothered while doing it. We are not okay, besties.
Fans and fellow celebs flooded social media with tributes faster than you can say “equal pay.” Actresses, politicians, and media personalities shared heartfelt posts honoring a woman who basically told every little girl she could have it all while simultaneously fighting tooth and nail to make that dream a reality. The outpouring of love proves that Steinem’s influence spanned generations, from boomers who watched her on 60 Minutes to millennials who quoted her on Twitter between selling handmade candles.
This marks the conclusion of an era that shaped women’s rights movements across the globe. Steinem’s work as a writer for outlets like New York Magazine and her continued activism through her foundation ensured her legacy will influence generations to come. She was the blueprint, the moment, the everything for women who dared to dream beyond kitchen confines.
The fashion girls are already planning their black turtleneck tributes, because if there was ever a moment to channel your inner Steinem minimalist chic, sweetie, this is it. Rest in power to a woman who refused to apologize for taking up space and demanding better for every single one of us.
What do you think? A) Gloria Steinem’s impact on feminism can never be replaced B) Younger activists need to carry her torch forward