She Broke the Glass Ceiling

We are saddened today to learn of the death of Geraldine Ferraro. She was an historic feminist, a compassionate humanitarian and a role model for generations of women and girls seeking to break the glass ceiling. She was a champion for women’s rights during her three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, but of course she’s most remembered for her historic run for vice president in 1984. As Ferraro traveled the country, she attracted huge crowds eager to vote for a woman for such a high office.

Aside from her political accomplishments, she provided courageous inspiration to millions of people combatting cancer, and helped countless people fighting multiple myeloma.

I had the privilege of working on women’s issues with Gerry for many years, and also saw her compassion and strength in action as she helped a dear friend of mine in her own struggle against multiple myeloma. We will miss her very much.

Photo of Geraldine Ferraro from Wikimedia Commons.

About

Eleanor Smeal is president of the Feminist Majority Foundation and publisher of Ms. For over five decades, she has played a leading role in both national and state campaigns to win women’s rights legislation, including the Equal Rights Amendment.