8 Ways Gloria Steinem Improved Our Lives“Leading second wave feminist, activist, and writer Gloria S

8 Ways Gloria Steinem Improved Our Lives“Leading second wave feminist, activist, and writer Gloria Steinem turns 81 today, and this Upper East Sider is so, so, so much more than a pretty face. In many ways, her good looks helped her gain the attention to advance the agenda for women’s rights—but in many ways, they also held her back when she wanted to be taken seriously. In Education of a Woman: The Life of Gloria Steinem, biographer Carolyn G. Heilbrun noted, “Steinem was able instantly to create a bridge to feminism when she revealed, simply by appearing, that one did not need to be man-hating or ‘shrill’—the media presentation of a feminist—to be a feminist. Though a combination of beauty and power threatened men, it reassured women.” Throughout her life, Steinem repeatedly faced comments from male reporters about her “stunning” looks “in spite” of her feminism. To one man, she responded, “Well, I should comment on your appearance but I don’t have the time.” Heilbrun aptly summed up Steinem’s persona: “Here was a woman who looked good enough to be one of Esquire’s sexy dolls, but who threatened to take away their rights to these dolls.” Last year for her 80th birthday, The New York Times published an op-ed to honor her: “This Is What 80 Looks Like.” Her friend Robin Morgan told columnist Gail Collins, “I think for her as an individual, in one sense aging has been a relief. Because she was so glamorized by the male world and treated for her exterior more than her interior.” This is a woman who seems to have it all—a top college education, good looks, and brilliant drive—but what has made her the icon that she is today is that she lends her vulnerabilities and strengths out to millions of women and men who face social and political injustices every day. Here are eight great reasons to honor, celebrate, and give gratitude on Steinem’s birthday.”See the full list hereKind of a weird focus for the list intro - all about Steinem’s looks / perception factor - but the full piece has some great photos and info.Photo 1: Gloria Steinem raises fists with fellow feminist activist Dorothy Pitman Hughes. (Source)Photo 2: Gloria Steinem holding a protest sign (for a LIFE photoshoot) in the ‘60s.(Source) -- source link

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