By Lindsay Christ

Activists relived their glory days of the ’60s and students put a face to the movement when Gloria Steinem, a longtime social activist, spoke Monday afternoon at the Adams Playhouse.

Steinem commented on how the debate got students “into history and out of classes.”

In her talk, Steinem addressed politics in general, along with the status of social movements and what students should do next. She said labeling does not help the electoral process. “Republicans were the first to introduce the equal rights amendments,” Steinem said.

Steinem said that when a social justice movement begins, the people in it are told by critics that it can’t be done, and it’s against nature. Now, feminists and other activists are told that their efforts are not necessary anymore, she said.

Steinem felt there was still a lot of work to do before everyone was regarded as individuals and biases were removed. However,she also said the culture is now at a turning point where steps can be made.

She strongly endorsed Barack Obama, the Democratic nominee, saying he is a “miraculous candidate who will help make this transition in a positive way.” As for Palin, she said electing her is a step back for feminism.