Gloria Steinem, the renowned feminist icon who passed away at 92, built a legacy not just through her writing, but through the gatherings she hosted in her New York City brownstone. For decades, Steinem facilitated what she called “Talking Circles”—meetings where participants sat together without a head of the table or hierarchy, a practice inspired by Indigenous traditions she detailed in her 2015 memoir, “My Life on the Road.”
Ann Shoket, CEO of TheLi.st, a community for women and nonbinary leaders, shared her reflections on LinkedIn, noting Steinem’s accessibility and authenticity. Shoket, who attended two recent events in Steinem’s living room, said the activist made attendees “dream bigger.” These conversations were catalytic, helping to shape the founding of Ms. Magazine and the Women’s Media Center, while also providing strategic space for organizations like Third Wave, Equality Now, and Direct Impact Africa.
The power of Steinem’s home lay in its ability to crack open opportunities for support, idea exchange, and trust-building. This model of face-to-face connection became increasingly significant in an era where nearly three-quarters of adults socialize with close contacts twice a month or less, and about two-thirds report never joining clubs or organizations.
Soraya Chemaly, author and board member of the Women’s Media Center, highlighted Steinem’s dedication to intergenerational connection. Chemaly, who estimates visiting the living room nearly a dozen times, noted that Steinem listened to young women without condescension, validating their voices and building solidarity in a comfortable, low-key environment.
In honor of this tradition, Gloria’s Foundation has announced that Steinem’s home will continue to serve as a site for individuals and organizations to gather and connect.
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