Gloria Steinem to speak at The Lyric Theatre, Blake Library Oct. 24

Monday, October 8, 2012

By Zaimarie De Guzman

Posted October 8, 2012 at 9:33 p.m.

Feminist activist Gloria Steinem will talk politics, women's issues and the presidential race during her Oct. 24 Stuart visit to The Lyric Theatre and Blake Library. Steinem, the award-winning journalist who founded Ms. Magazine and grew in the '70s as a prominent figure of the feminist movement, will have a conversation with the audience, answering questions and providing feedback. "I love the fact that she — such an iconic spokesperson for women's rights and voting issues — will be here," said John Loesser, executive director of The Lyric. "I personally think it's important for the community to have this kind of discussion right now with someone as important in the world as she is."

Before appearing at the downtown theater on Oct. 24, Steinem will have a brown bag lunch with guests at the Blake Library. Attendees can bring lunch and have an informal discussion with Steinem. Both events are free. "Gloria wanted to connect with the audience and have it be free, and we were fine with that," Loesser said. "We made the Lyric available to her."

Steinem first came to Florida in 1972 as a co-founder of the National Women's Political Caucus and has since traveled the world to voice her concerns on equality. Steinem is working on the book, "Road to the Heart: America As if Everyone Mattered," which details her more than 30 years on the road as a feminist organizer.

Steinem reportedly is campaigning at other Florida venues, trying to reach groups of republican and independent women. "Her visit here is going to be exciting, informative," Loesser said.