Feminist icon Gloria Steinem died at her Upper East Side home in New York on Thursday at the age of 92, "surrounded by many who loved her," according to her foundation. Following the news, an impromptu memorial formed outside her house, with women leaving flowers and cards thanking her for a lifetime dedicated to advancing women's rights and paying tribute to her as a "hero to all women."

Steinem's home, which she moved into in 1967 and lived in for the rest of her life, was central to her activism, serving as the venue for decades of "talking circles" where she gathered women to discuss politics and personal experiences; the property is expected to continue hosting such gatherings after her death. Her wider legacy includes co-founding the National Women's Political Caucus, launching Ms. magazine, helping establish Take Our Daughters to Work Day, and co-founding the Women's Media Center with Jane Fonda and Robin Morgan. Friends and admirers, including Lena Dunham, shared tributes recalling her warmth and influence, while visitors such as non-profit founder Larz May described being inspired by her example.