A Tale of Two Women
Phyllis Schlafly and Gloria Steinem both passed away at the age of 92. Both had full lives with enormous impact on American culture. They never met, but their life stories were intertwined. Both came from poor families, graduated Phi Beta Kappa, and became leaders of movements. They each were intelligent and prolific writers. Both used their physical beauty and stylishness to advance their causes.
Steinem believed that women were second-class citizens; Schlafly said that American women are the most fortunate and privileged class of people in human history.
Steinem wanted a revolution in America; Schlafly recognized America as the greatest country in history.
Steinem identified as a radical feminist opposed to the patriarchy; Schlafly celebrated the men, husbands, and fathers who made life better for girls and women.
Steinem wanted to be liberated from marriage and child-rearing; Schlafly was fulfilled by her marriage and children.
Steinem celebrated her sexual conquests; Schlafly celebrated her faithfulness in her marriage vows.
Steinem wanted the government to raise children; Schlafly kept the bureaucrats out of baby-sitting.
Steinem wanted the American military to disarm; Schlafly wanted a strong national defense to protect America from all of its enemies.
Steinem was a member and leader of the Democratic Socialists of America; Schlafly was a Republican who wrote of the evils of socialism and communism.
Phyllis Schlafly married young and raised six children. Gloria Steinem had an early abortion and married in her 60s. Schlafly was proud of her children and grandchildren; Steinem was proud of her abortion.
Steinem created the phrase “reproductive freedom”; Schlafly created the phrase “it’s a child, not a choice”.
Did they ever agree? Yes, both women opposed the sexual exploitation of women through Playboy and other forms of pornography.
Despite her anti-American philosophy, Steinem was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. It is a shame that Phyllis Schlafly, who extolled American freedoms, was never awarded that prize.
