"At the end of 2023 we had a paid subscription base of 593 (408 print and 185 online). In 2023 we lost 80 subscriptions and (gained) only 12 new ones. This is in spite of all our efforts to promote the FEZANA Journal,” noted a report presented at the annual general meeting of the Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of North America (FEZANA) in Chicago this April, urging an enhancement of subscriptions for their quarterly publication "if you wish to keep it alive.”
With the quarterly running into nearly 100 pages each, the four issues of 2023 focused on "Education: the power to change the world;” "Full Z-STEAM ahead” on Zarathushtis in the fields of science, engineering, maths and arts; "Inclusive voices: stories from the Zoroastrian LGBTQ+ community;” and "Zoroastrian Contribution at the Parliament of World Religions.” This is in addition to showcasing the activities of different FEZANA committees and associations and accomplishments by community members. For the last 18 years the Journal is being edited by erstwhile FEZANA president Dr Dolly Dastoor.
Complimentary copies of the print magazine are regularly sent to all the FEZANA associations, libraries in North America which have departments of Middle Eastern studies and a few select institutions in India like the Meherjirana Library in Navsari. "This year we tried to review our practice of sending complimentary print copies to FEZANA associations. But we were not successful as most want printed copies which they can display in their reading rooms and libraries,” stated the report.
To reduce printing costs, they send complimentary electronic copies to all their scholarship winners, freelance contributors, advertisers and those whose births, navjotes and weddings appear in the milestone column. Further, most of their overseas subscribers have been moved to electronic copies.
Dr Dolly Dastoor: seeking subscribers
The editorial team is grateful for the support from advertisers, printers, contributors who submit articles pro bono, well-wishers and donors, and volunteers who assist with the editing, layout, subscription renewals and promotion. Help is sought to create one-minute video summaries of published articles for wider dissemination through social media channels, to market the Journal at exhibitions and booths, and for global reporters to submit original content.