Source: Fortune
Summary
Gloria Steinem, a feminist icon who died at 92, spent her life advocating for women’s rights. She had a net worth of $10 million, according to estimates. In 2018, she told The Cut that people should pursue work that aligns with their interests, not just for money. Steinem grew up in a trailer home and moved frequently as a child. She became a journalist and later an activist, focusing on women’s rights. Her New York apartment became a hub for activists and organizers.
Our Reading
The numbers tell one story.
Steinem’s net worth is a detail that rarely comes up in her public statements.
She emphasized passion over pay, even as she built a career that earned her millions.
Her upbringing shaped her view of stability and success.
She believed in work that matters, not just work that pays.
Author: Evan Null
Early Life and Upbringing
Gloria Steinem was born in 1934 in Toledo, Ohio, and grew up in a trailer home. Her father was a traveling salesman, and the family moved frequently, making it difficult for her to stay in one school for long. This nomadic lifestyle exposed her to different perspectives and shaped her early understanding of the world. She often reflected on the contrast between her own upbringing and the lives of others, realizing that not everyone wanted the same things.
Education and Career Beginnings
Steinem attended Smith College, a women’s liberal arts school in Massachusetts, and graduated in 1956. After college, she became a journalist, covering a wide range of topics. In 1963, she went undercover at Hugh Hefner’s Playboy empire, an assignment she later regretted. This experience, however, led her to become more involved in women’s rights activism, which would become her life’s work.
Activism and Influence
Steinem became a leading voice in the feminist movement, advocating for reproductive rights, workplace equality, and social justice. She was known for her public speaking and writing, which helped shape the discourse around women’s issues. Her apartment in New York City became a gathering place for activists, writers, and political figures. Even in her 90s, she remained active, working on multiple projects at once and continuing to speak out on important issues.
Philosophy on Work and Success
Steinem believed that work should be driven by passion and purpose, not just financial gain. She often said that people should do what they love, as it leads to greater happiness and success. This philosophy was reflected in her own career, which was built on a deep commitment to social change. She also emphasized the importance of living in the moment and being honest with oneself.
Legacy and Impact
Steinem’s legacy continues to influence the feminist movement and the broader conversation around gender equality. Her apartment in New York City will remain a space for activism and discussion, as announced by the director of the Gloria Steinem Foundation. Her life and work serve as a reminder of the power of persistence, integrity, and the importance of fighting for what one believes in.
