Date :
2007-11-08
www.irandokht.com
Since the Islamic revolution of 1978, as a result of confluences of circumstances, Iranians have acquired a global negative image while those in the diaspora, particularly in the United States, have been singled out for negative stereotyping. Impressive achievements of individual Iranians are often overlooked, while our historical contributions to humanity, science, and art are either forgotten or distorted. In effect, Iranians are simply reduced to angry fundamentalists who hate Western civilization. Not surprisingly, in a recent national survey of Americans, Iran was mentioned as one of the most hated and threatening nations. With negative images strongly embedded in the psyche of countless Americans, be it schoolmates, colleagues, neighbors, clients or bosses, many Iranians inside the United States are faced with a dilemma to either reject their self identity and heritage while shying away from the Iranian community in an attempt to "fit in", or to face prejudice and racism. The impact is long lasting and not only impeding our community’s advancement and happiness but also paving way for a devastating war.
Negative images are often outcomes of deliberate and/or irresponsible and selective coverage in reporting events mainly by mainstream media, but also by the opportunist ethnic media that is engaged in sensational reporting either for political purposes and/or for gaining attention. Our tendency to remain silent does not help the matter. When concerned individuals express their views, the main streammedia simply choose to ignore it. That is why it is critical to have a collective voice that is informed, independent, active and engaged in creating a positive image. We should not forget that a silent minority is no longer just a “forgotten minority” but often an “abused minority”.
Since its launch in March 2002, IranDokht, as an independent and non-partisan media outlet, has been engaged in challenging these stereotypes. We build bridges for global debate and campaign for peace and tolerance. In this critical junction, when America and Iran are being pushed towards war, to maintain a balance is a daunting task that requires remaining informed and focused. We have worked tirelesly to provide a pool of high quality, objective, clutter free and credible information while offering service and support. IranDokht utilizes more than 80 mostly Iranian female writers to empower and demystify the voices of Iranian women.
Our editorial challenges the stereotype of Iranian women while giving our youth a sense of pride by highlighting the achievements of Iranians. We extensively cover stories ranging from Ebadi’s Nobel Peace Prize, Naficy’s record breaking best seller, Satrapi’ success, New York sensation over Neshat’s video installations, Aghdashloo’s Oscar nomination, Nazanin's title as Miss Canada, Samira Makhmalbaf’s Cannes awards, Ansari’s trip as first woman space tourist to orbit, just to name a few. We promote the efforts of those Iranians who run for key positions in USA in the hope to empower our community at large. We alert the community and assist demonstrations against laws that single out our community. We raise concern when Iranians are mistreated (Iranian student being tasered in UCLA); we keep stories alive long after mainstream forgets them (disappearances of Iranian student Donna Jou and arrest of Haleh Esfandiari). We support those in need by informing the community (Iranian children in Irvine who lost their parents in an accident). Beyond serving our community by highlighting its successes and challenges, our editorials also focus on promoting art and cultures while discussing and questioning traditions and characteristics that impede advancement of our community.
Equally important is our effort to take our mission to the heart of mainstream media where we frequently publish or broadcast our articles and interviews. These include Huffington Post, Play Boy, Associated Press, BlogHer, New America Media, as well as National Public Radio, KPFK, Voice of America, to name few that over last two years have featured IranDokht. IranDokht has been recognized by many prestigious organizations. UNESCO is showcasing IranDokht amongst the 34 selected websites for women worldwide. IranDokht TV program was recognized by New America Media as a runner up for the best community talk show for the depth of its discussion. Today, IranDokht remains as the only global life style magazine for Iranian women and with average 4000 daily visitors and a newsletter that reaches an estimated 450,000 individuals, it is an effective and insuppressible voice.
For IranDokht to remain informed, active, diligent and focused in its efforts, we are currently exploring new and responsible ways to expand our funding. Considering our determination to remain non-partisan, and in the view of our limited market of Iranian Women, the community support becomes critical. For the first time since our launch in March 2002, we are seeking contributions from concerned individuals such as you.
Along with the personal benefits to you in having an independent media outlet that directly addresses your concerns and issues, our unfettered access to the community marketplace can also hold untold advantages for your business or organization. Whatever your interests, there is a donation level that's right for you. Each level has its own great benefits. Please use our online pledge form or call/write us directly to keep IranDokht and our community strong, savvy, and well-informed.
Thank you.
Regards,
Pari Esfandiari
Editor in Chief
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