What's Happening?
SRN News, referencing an Associated Press feature from April 5, 1970, looks back at Gloria Steinem's life and career as a freelance journalist and burgeoning feminist figure. The original AP article, titled 'Making It Like, Wow,' written by Lynn Sherr,
provided a glimpse into Steinem's life before she co-founded Ms. Magazine. It portrayed her as a journalist equally at home in high-society dinners and tenement halls, navigating both the glitterati and political activism. The piece highlighted her dual existence, from attending exclusive social events to supporting causes like the Black Panthers and Cesar Chavez's grape-pickers. The article also touched upon the public's perception of Steinem, often focusing on her appearance and social life, sometimes overshadowing her serious political and journalistic endeavors. She was described as a 'writer-activist-antiwar-gorgeous bachelor girl' who was frequently the subject of media attention herself.
Why It's Important?
This retrospective on Gloria Steinem's early career is important for understanding the foundational years of a pivotal figure in American feminism and journalism. It illustrates the challenges and perceptions faced by women in public life during that era, particularly those who defied traditional roles. Steinem's ability to move between diverse social and political spheres, from celebrity circles to grassroots activism, showcases her unique position in the cultural landscape of the late 1960s and early 1970s. The article also highlights the media's tendency to focus on personal attributes, such as appearance, even when reporting on significant intellectual and political contributions. This historical perspective offers insights into the evolving role of women in media and activism, and the early stages of the women's liberation movement in the U.S., setting the stage for her later influential work with Ms. Magazine.
What's Next?
While the article is a historical reflection, it implicitly sets the stage for understanding the trajectory of Gloria Steinem's career and the broader women's movement. The early media portrayal, which often emphasized her beauty and social connections, would eventually be challenged by Steinem herself as she became a more vocal advocate for feminist causes. Her subsequent co-founding of Ms. Magazine would provide a platform to address the very issues of gender stereotypes and the objectification of women that she encountered in her early career. This historical context suggests a future where Steinem would actively shape the narrative around women's roles, moving beyond the 'Everygirl' image to become a leading voice for systemic change. The article serves as a prelude to her enduring legacy as a feminist icon and influential journalist.
Beyond the Headlines
The portrayal of Gloria Steinem in 1970, as detailed in the AP feature, reveals deeper societal attitudes towards women who dared to be both intelligent and attractive, politically engaged and socially prominent. The article's emphasis on her 'showgirl legs' and 'perfect-for-a-Pucci-dress body' alongside her political radicalism highlights the inherent tension and often contradictory expectations placed upon women in the public eye. This dynamic underscores the ethical challenge of media representation, where personal attributes can overshadow professional achievements. Steinem's own frustration with how her life came across as 'more Lively than Real' speaks to the struggle of maintaining authenticity in the face of public scrutiny. This historical snapshot offers a valuable lens through which to examine the cultural dimensions of feminism and the ongoing quest for equitable representation in media and society.
