Valerie Solanas, feminist writer and controversial activist, passed away on April 25, 1988 at the age of 52. A native of New Jersey, Valerie attended Rutgers and the University of Maryland and wrote the "SCUM Manifesto". Valerie's life and works were characterized by her strong beliefs in the need for true gender equality among all people, and her activism often pushed boundaries, including provocative campaigns such as her activism with the Society for Cutting Up Men. In the late 1960s she became known for shooting artist Andy Warhol in an attack in Manhattan. The shooting resulted in Valerie being institutionalized, then jailed for assault and illegal firearm possession, followed by further psychiatric treatment. Throughout her life, Valerie fiercely called for gender equality, but her views often led to controversy. Valerie's life and work as an activist and writer will be remembered.