In the history of modern feminism, few figures stand out as prominently as Gloria Steinem and Betty Friedan. These two pioneering women played crucial roles in reshaping American society’s view of gender roles and in fighting for equality on a national level. While they often took different approaches, their collaborative efforts through powerful organizations like the National Organization for Women helped to create lasting changes in women’s rights, education, and employment opportunities. Understanding their influence and the movements they supported provides essential context for the evolution of second-wave feminism in the United States.
The Birth of the National Organization for Women (NOW)
Founding Vision
The National Organization for Women (NOW) was founded in 1966 by a group of feminist leaders, including Betty Friedan. Friedan, already well-known for her groundbreaking bookThe Feminine Mystique, sought to create a structured and politically active organization that would work to ensure women had equal rights in all areas of life. The initial purpose of NOW was to advocate for the enforcement of anti-discrimination laws, especially Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which banned employment discrimination based on gender.
Betty Friedan’s Role
As one of the co-founders and the first president of NOW, Betty Friedan was instrumental in setting the direction of the organization. She envisioned a broad platform, one that would address not only legal equality but also the deeper social and cultural forces that limited women’s potential. Under her leadership, NOW took strong positions on workplace discrimination, reproductive rights, and media representation.
Core Principles of NOW
- Eliminating sex discrimination in employment and education
- Achieving full reproductive rights for women
- Promoting equal opportunities in politics, business, and public life
- Ending violence against women and supporting protective legislation
Gloria Steinem Joins the Feminist Movement
Early Involvement
Gloria Steinem emerged as a feminist leader a few years after the founding of NOW. As a journalist and social activist, she brought a unique perspective to the movement by combining sharp media insight with a progressive feminist agenda. Her famous 1969 topic, After Black Power, Women’s Liberation, positioned her as one of the most eloquent voices of the emerging feminist wave.
Ms. Magazine and Media Influence
One of Steinem’s major contributions was the founding ofMs. Magazinein 1972. The magazine gave voice to feminist issues, covering topics that mainstream media often ignored. It became an essential platform for advocacy, discussion, and the dissemination of ideas related to gender equality, reproductive rights, and social justice. With Ms. Magazine, Steinem succeeded in bringing feminism into public discourse in a way that was both accessible and impactful.
Collaboration Between Friedan and Steinem
Common Goals and Differences
While both Friedan and Steinem shared a commitment to women’s equality, their strategies and emphases often differed. Friedan, coming from an academic and organizational background, leaned toward legislative and institutional change. Steinem, with her journalistic experience, focused more on changing culture and media narratives. Despite these differences, they worked together on key issues such as the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), abortion rights, and combating systemic sexism.
Uniting Through Political Advocacy
During the 1970s, Steinem and Friedan joined forces with other feminists to support legislation and public awareness campaigns. They both contributed to lobbying efforts for the ERA and advocated for the Roe v. Wade decision, which legalized abortion in 1973. Their public appearances, topics, and activism helped to rally widespread support among women across various social and economic backgrounds.
Legacy of Their Organizational Impact
Successes of NOW
Thanks to the groundwork laid by Friedan and strengthened by Steinem’s advocacy, NOW grew into one of the most influential women’s rights organizations in the United States. It established local chapters across the country and played a significant role in numerous political milestones, including:
- The passage of Title IX, ensuring equal opportunities in education and sports
- Workplace protections through the Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978
- Support for survivors of domestic violence through the Violence Against Women Act
Enduring Cultural Change
Steinem’s contributions helped to shift the national conversation about gender roles. Feminism became a household term, and the idea of women’s empowerment entered the mainstream. Through her work in media, education, and activism, she influenced countless individuals to challenge traditional norms and envision a more equal society.
Other Organizations and Movements
The Women’s Action Alliance
In 1971, Steinem co-founded the Women’s Action Alliance, an organization that focused on grassroots activism, education, and leadership training. This group worked to connect local feminist initiatives and provided resources to help women organize and advocate within their communities.
Political Organizations
Both Friedan and Steinem supported the formation of the National Women’s Political Caucus in 1971. This organization aimed to increase the number of women in elected and appointed political positions. They believed that systemic change required more representation at every level of government.
Challenges and Criticisms
Internal Disagreements
As the feminist movement grew, tensions emerged among its leaders. Friedan famously expressed concern that the movement was becoming too radical or focused on issues such as lesbian rights, which she believed might alienate potential supporters. Steinem, however, took a more inclusive approach, supporting a broader definition of feminism that embraced diversity and intersectionality.
Public Backlash
Both women faced harsh criticism from conservative groups and media outlets. Accusations of undermining family values or promoting divisive ideas were common. However, their persistence helped to normalize the conversation around gender equality, even in the face of opposition.
Continuing Influence
Inspiring Future Generations
The work of Gloria Steinem and Betty Friedan continues to influence contemporary feminism. Many of today’s activists and thought leaders look to their writings, speeches, and organizational models for guidance and inspiration. Organizations like NOW and Ms. Foundation for Women remain active, building on the legacy of these early pioneers.
Recognition and Honors
Both women have received numerous awards and honors for their lifelong dedication to social justice. Steinem was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013, while Friedan’s work is widely credited with launching the second wave of feminism in America.
Gloria Steinem and Betty Friedan left an indelible mark on American society through their tireless efforts to promote equality and justice for women. By founding and leading powerful organizations like the National Organization for Women, they brought structure, vision, and voice to the feminist movement. Their different but complementary approaches Friedan’s focus on legal equality and Steinem’s emphasis on cultural transformation created a more complete and inclusive vision of what feminism could achieve. Their legacy continues to inspire new generations of activists committed to building a fairer and more just world.