Teresa de Lauretis, the renowned Italian feminist theorist, passed away at the age of 87 in San Francisco. Born in Bologna on November 29, 1938, she spent much of her academic career in the United States, where she made substantial contributions to gender studies, semiotics, and psychoanalysis. Throughout her career, De Lauretis's work explored the dynamics of feminism and the representation of women, gay, lesbian, and queer identities in contemporary culture. Her numerous books, including 'Figures of Resistance' and 'Technologies of Gender', have left a lasting impact on feminist thought and activism.

De Lauretis's research helped to foreground critical issues within feminism, including the portrayal and roles of marginalized identities in media and society. She challenged conventional narratives and encouraged a deeper examination of the intersections between gender, sexuality, and culture. Her work not only influenced academic discourse but also contributed to broader activism, pushing for greater visibility and representation of diverse gender identities.

The loss of Teresa de Lauretis is felt deeply within the academic community and among activists who recognized her as a pioneering figure in gender studies. Her legacy will continue through her publications and the academic frameworks she helped develop, inspiring future generations to critically engage with the feminist discourse and continue advocating for equality and representation within society.