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A Friendship Forged in Activism
Meghan Markle has paid heartfelt tribute to the late Gloria Steinem, describing the legendary second‑wave feminist as both a “friend and mentor”. The Duchess of Sussex’s tribute, posted shortly after Steinem’s foundation announced her passing on Wednesday, 2 September at the age of 92, highlighted the depth of their relationship beyond the public appearances that had made them familiar faces. “Look at what you’ve done for all of us,” Markle wrote, sharing a framed photograph that captured a moment of tenderness between Steinem and one of her own children, their faces concealed in a mask. The image, displayed alongside a heartfelt message, underscored how the two women had intertwined their lives in both the public arena and the private sphere.
Public Platforms, Private Bonds
The pair’s collaboration began in earnest during the pandemic’s height in 2020, when Markle hosted a socially‑distant “backyard chat” with Steinem to discuss the vital importance of voting. That interview, filmed while adhering to distancing rules, became a touchstone for many young voters. In a later interview, Steinem revealed that Markle had been “cold‑calling” US citizens to urge them to cast their ballots in the 2020 presidential election, a detail that illustrated Markle’s hands‑on approach to civic engagement. Their partnership extended beyond the campaign trail; together they attended award ceremonies, brainstormed initiatives aimed at fostering equity, and frequently spoke at events championing reproductive rights, climate action, and tech accountability.
Privately, the bond deepened in ways that rarely entered the public eye. Markle recounted how Steinem would spend Thanksgiving with her family, introducing her to close friends and offering counsel during challenging periods. The former “Suits” actress described Steinem’s “extraordinary advice and perspective with a cup of tea and an unrivalled cheekiness and wit”, painting a portrait of a woman whose influence radiated far beyond the podium.
Family Ties and Personal Moments
The intimacy of their relationship became evident when Steinem invited Architectural Digest into her New York home for a tour in 2025. Fans scrolling through the feature spotted a framed photograph of Prince Harry, Meghan, and their two children—Archie, aged seven, and Lilibet, five—displayed in Steinem’s office. The image served as a quiet testament to the family life Steinem cherished.
A pivotal moment arrived in 2023 when Steinem joined the Sussexes for Thanksgiving. In an interview the following year, Meghan reflected on the holiday’s significance, noting how she always “make[s] sure there’s room at the table for your friends who don’t have family, which is really key”. The Duchess’s words echoed Steinem’s lifelong commitment to inclusivity, reinforcing how the activist’s values resonated within the royal family’s domestic setting.
Legacy and Reflection
Steinem’s foundation announced her death on Instagram, posting a statement that read, “Gloria’s near‑century on earth were years well‑lived, and she continued working for equality until the very end.” The message captured the essence of a woman who remained a tireless advocate until her final days. Meghan’s tribute, rich with both public accolades and private anecdotes, serves as a reminder of the impact one individual can have across generations. It also highlights how figures from different walks of life—royalty and activism—can converge in a shared mission for social progress.
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Why it Matters
The outpouring of admiration for Gloria Steinem from someone as prominent as Meghan Markle underscores the timeless relevance of feminist activism and the power of cross‑generational mentorship. Their collaboration illustrates how public figures can leverage their platforms to amplify crucial issues—from voting rights to reproductive freedom—while also nurturing authentic personal connections that inspire broader cultural change. In an era marked by political polarisation and social upheaval, the partnership between Markle and Steinem stands as a compelling example of how compassion, advocacy, and shared purpose can bridge divides and galvanise collective action. This moment not only honours a trailblazer’s legacy but also reaffirms the ongoing need for voices that champion equality and justice on both the global stage and within our own communities.
