Gloria Steinem, Rest in Justice
Gloria Steinem, Rest in Justice
September 3, 2026
WATER mourns the death of feminist leader Gloria Steinem whose consequential life
touched countless people. Her ability to make justice for women a hallmark of every social
change movement was surpassed only by her amazing networking skills and commitment.
touched countless people. Her ability to make justice for women a hallmark of every social
change movement was surpassed only by her amazing networking skills and commitment.
We at WATER remember fondly her participation in the 1987 Women-Church
Convergence conference in Cincinnati, Ohio. As she rode an escalator in the conference venue,
she was asked why she, a seemingly secular feminist, was at the conference with 1200+ mostly
Catholic women. Surveying the atrium she replied, “This is the women’s movement.”
Convergence conference in Cincinnati, Ohio. As she rode an escalator in the conference venue,
she was asked why she, a seemingly secular feminist, was at the conference with 1200+ mostly
Catholic women. Surveying the atrium she replied, “This is the women’s movement.”
She understood that religion requires serious feminist attention for anything to change
in the world. Our work was inspired by hers, blessed by the model of inclusion and
commitment, tireless efforts and enduring hope that she was.
Gloria Steinem, thank you for giving us a light from your mighty torch.
in the world. Our work was inspired by hers, blessed by the model of inclusion and
commitment, tireless efforts and enduring hope that she was.
Gloria Steinem, thank you for giving us a light from your mighty torch.
Upcoming Programs
Dignity USA and WATER
Tuesday, September 29, 2026, 8 PM ET
40 Years Since the Vatican’s Letter on Pastoral Care of Homosexual Persons. Session 1: The Immediate and Short-Term Impact of the Letter’s Release.”
Scheduled speakers: Jeannine Gramick, Mary E. Hunt, Bryan Massingale.
Moderated by Marianne Duddy-Burke.
*Information to register will follow soon.
WATER in the Media
Introducing “Kwok’n Roll” – The Podcast That Sparks Bold Conversations!
Join the incredible Kwok Pui Lan as she kicks off her highly anticipated podcast, Kwok’n Roll! In each episode, Kwok Pui Lan dives deep into captivating conversations with some of the brightest minds of our time—trailblazing intellectuals, fearless religious leaders, passionate activists, and groundbreaking artists. Together, they explore the pressing political, cultural, and religious issues shaping our world today, all while examining the vital role people of faith play in these pivotal conversations. Listen to the podcast on Podbean.
Faithful Provocations
What does it mean to be a person of faith in today’s challenging world? Postcolonial theologian Kwok Pui Lan explores Christianity, social justice, and cross-cultural dialogue — with wit, depth, and a little rock ‘n’ roll spirit. Formerly Kwok ‘n’ Roll channel. Watch the series on YouTube.
Canadian Broadcasting Cooperation (CBC) Interview:
In an interview with the CBC, feminist theologian Mary E. Hunt urged urgent reform of the papal election process. Co-founder of the Women’s Alliance for Theology, Ethics, and Ritual (WATER), Hunt explained that the process lacks transparency and needs to be more inclusive. With concern growing about Pope Francis’ health, she stressed the importance of including a far more diverse group of electors, including young people and women. She also commented on the movie “Conclave” lest viewers think they know much more about the secret process. Women were portrayed accurately in the movie as only one had real voice. Surely change is needed.
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Land Acknowledgement
WATER, located in Silver Spring, Maryland, acknowledges that it sits on the traditional and contemporary homeland of the Piscataway and Nacotchtank (sometimes known as the Anacostan) people, the original stewards of this land.
We are committed to lifting up the names of these lands and the community members from these nations who reside alongside us and who were here long before we were. We affirm WATER’s intention to promote healing, respect, and love for all people through our work, with special indebtedness to Native people whose lands we are privileged to share.