Our team at HelpAge USA was devastated to hear the news of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s passing. As she took on the role of Supreme Court Justice later in her life, Ginsburg showcased the undeniable contributions that women, and particularly older women, have on our world. Her strength, determination, and tenacity up until her death exemplified what we know to be true: getting older does not lessen your talent or worth. 

Ruth Bader Ginsburg changed the very fabric of our nation and her work championing gender equality will be regaled throughout history. Yet her legacy will be defined not only by her indefatigable advocacy for equal rights but also by her celebrity in older age, for it was precisely the fact that she was older and still championing the same ideals that seemed to catapult her into fame. She defied norms when she didn’t retire five years ago under a Democratic administration. Rather than projecting an image of older age and frailty, she demonstrated that she was strong and capable: sparking the creation of graphics under the slogan, “Not fragile like a flower, fragile like a bomb.”

The strength and impassioned grit of Ginsburg will go on to inspire generations of advocates in a myriad of fields and disciplines. At HelpAge USA, we will remember her for fighting for the rights of all people regardless of their race, gender, ability, or age.