Friedan became the first president of NOW, guiding its early agenda.
The same day the National Organization for Women (NOW) was founded, on October 29, 1966, Betty Friedan assumed the role of its first president. Her leadership was crucial in crafting the initial direction and goals of NOW, focusing intensely on workplace and legal equity for women. Under her presidency, NOW fought against sex discrimination and advocated for reproductive rights. Friedan's presidency not only solidified her as a leader in the feminist movement but also helped define the early strategies used to combat gender inequality in the U.S., building a platform for sustained advocacy.