Meghan Markle has shared a deeply personal tribute to Gloria Steinem following the death of the legendary feminist activist at the age of 92.
The Duchess of Sussex remembered Steinem not only as an influential figure in the women’s rights movement, but also as a close friend, mentor and someone who became part of her family’s life.
In her tribute, Meghan highlighted one phrase that held special meaning in their relationship: “We are linked, not ranked.” Steinem had given Meghan a bracelet carrying the message, and Meghan said she continues to wear it with pride.
The words reflected Steinem’s broader philosophy about equality and human connection. Rather than viewing people through a hierarchy, she promoted the idea that individuals are connected and should be valued equally.
Meghan and Steinem first became connected in 2020. Their relationship grew through conversations about voting, women’s rights and equality. The two women also worked together on voter outreach during the US election period.
Their friendship continued well beyond their public appearances. Meghan recalled private moments with Steinem, including spending Thanksgiving together and receiving advice during difficult periods.
Steinem also became familiar with Meghan’s children. The relationship eventually extended beyond activism and public causes, developing into a personal friendship between the two families.
Meghan has previously spoken about how much she valued Steinem’s guidance. In 2023, Steinem presented Meghan with the Women of Vision Award from the Ms. Foundation, recognizing her advocacy involving women and girls.
The feminist icon also had an influence on Prince Harry. Meghan previously recalled Harry telling Steinem that he considered himself a feminist. She said the attitude was important because she wanted their son Archie to grow up seeing equality and compassion as natural values.
For Meghan, Steinem’s influence appears to have been about much more than public activism. She remembered the warmth and personal support that existed behind the famous feminist’s public image.
One story Meghan shared particularly captured Steinem’s approach to life. According to Meghan, a mother once worried that her young daughter might not know who Steinem was. Steinem reportedly responded that what mattered was not whether the child knew her name, but whether the girl knew who she was herself.
That message appears to have stayed with Meghan.
The tribute comes as many public figures remember Steinem’s decades-long contribution to feminism and equality. She became one of the most recognizable voices of the modern women’s movement and continued advocating for social change throughout her life.
Meghan’s message focused less on Steinem’s fame and more on the person she knew privately. She described a woman who offered friendship, encouragement and wisdom while remaining deeply connected to the people around her.
The phrase “We Are Linked, Not Ranked” therefore carries particular meaning in Meghan’s tribute. For her, it represents the lasting lesson she received from a mentor who encouraged equality, confidence and solidarity.
As Meghan mourns the loss of Gloria Steinem, her tribute offers a glimpse into a friendship that developed from shared causes into a much more personal bond.
Steinem’s legacy will continue through the women’s rights movement, the people she mentored and the ideas she championed. For Meghan, however, that legacy will also remain connected to the personal memories of a friend who became an important part of her life.
Key Takeaways
- Meghan Markle paid an emotional tribute to Gloria Steinem after her death at 92.
- Meghan described Steinem as both a friend and mentor.
- Steinem gave Meghan a bracelet featuring the message “We Are Linked, Not Ranked.”
- The pair first connected in 2020 through shared interests in voting and equality.
- Their relationship later became a close personal friendship.
- Steinem presented Meghan with the Women of Vision Award in 2023.
- Meghan said Steinem’s advice and example had a lasting impact on her.
