I spent yesterday evening in Gloria Steinem’s living room. It was perfect timing; the New York Times just published a piece about the magic the legendary feminist activist has created in her home over six decades—bringing together women to discuss everything from political action to childcare to women’s health.
On this night, Steinem, now 91, was surrounded by a younger generation. The gathering was hosted by Ms President US, an organization that teaches girls as young as fourth grade about civic leadership and prepares them to become leaders in their communities and even in politics. Sofia Sahai, a high-school senior in New York, founded the city’s chapter and interviewed Steinem about her leadership and life lessons.
As soon as Steinem was ready to take questions from the two dozen middle-schoolers crowded on the floor, hands shot up. Some had read her memoir My Life on the Road and wanted to ask about her experience growing up with a nomadic family that rarely put her in in-person school. Others simply wanted Steinem’s advice on handling cliques at school, on feeling like the odd one out, on running for student council, on keeping going when others don’t understand you or make fun of you.
