Youth Assembly Overview

• Focus:  Young Professionals, New Technology, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Social Entrepreneurship for the MDGs
• Program:  YA+11B:  The Executive Sessions 
• Theme:  The MDGs and Beyond:  Youth Leaders Making a Difference, Today and Tomorrow
• Platform:  Plenary sessions, workshops, round table discussions, networking
• Leadership:  Renowned speakers and expert workshop facilitators; U.N. Staff participation at all sessions; Young leaders like yourself from around the world
• Special Events:  Tours of UN Headquarters and Evening receptions, MDG Campaign Night, Final Evening ‘Culture Night’ Event

31 January and 1 February 2013 at UN Headquarters, NYC
New Partnerships  –  Moving Words to Action

Group Registration CLOSES January 7
Individual Registration (Nearly Full, Act Today) through January 18

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FEZANA, the Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of North America, joins in grieving over the terrible carnage at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT.  One victim of such a senseless act is one too many.  It is unimaginable and horrifying that 20 little children, with all their lives and all their promise still ahead of them, and 6 of the school’s staff perished this way.
 
Unfortunately, we are growing all too familiar with such tragedies. Two similar recent outrages come to mind: At a movie theater in Colorado and at a Sikh gurdwara in Wisconsin. In each case, the victims have been entirely innocent and the perpetrators motivated by some warped or unknowable logic and inexplicably armed with weapons of mass destruction.
 
As North America’s many cultures and religious communities grapple each in their own way with how to cope with and react to this latest outrage, we Zoroastrians can offer the core ethos of our faith — good thoughts, good words, and good deeds — as a formula for healing and for preventing future such incidents.
 
Our prayers and thoughts are with the victims and their families and friends.
  
Katayun Kapadia
FEZANA – President

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Dear Zarathushtis
 
It has been a week since Hurricane Sandy ravaged the Greater New York and New Jersey areas impacting the lives of several zarathushti families from ZAGNY, IZA, and ZAPANJ residing there.  With the blessings of Ahuramazda the families in Southern New Jersey near the eye of the storm are safe except for a handful of families in greater Philadelphia area who experienced power outages from a few hours to 3-4 days.  However, there are many families in Central & Northern New Jersey, New York, Long Island & Connecticut who have experienced power outages since last Monday and as of to date are still without power.  
 
On behalf of the FEZANA Executive, I would like to thank all the zarathushti families in the above noted areas who have reached out to help their zarathushti brethren in their times of need to provide shelter, warm meals & hospitality in true zarathushti tradition.
 
Attached below is an appeal from the FEZANA Unity & Welfare Committee (please note the revised address for donation checks) that I am requesting all of you to share with your families and friends.
 
On behalf of the FEZANA Executive, I would like to extend our good thoughts, best wishes & sincere prayers for the safety of you, your families & your communities in the states of New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Washington DC, Virginia, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, & Connecticut and also to our zarathushtis in Canada – Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia who are impacted by Hurricane/Superstorm Sandy.

Please keep us posted about zarathushtis who need help and request them to contact their local associations or the FEZANA Unity & Welfare Committee as noted below.
 

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 THE ZARATHUSHTI WORLD – A DEMOGRAPHIC PICTURE

(Version 3, 28Oct2012, including results from the 2011 Iran census)

In commemoration of its 25th anniversary, FEZANA undertook a demographic study of all countries around the world where Zarathushtis reside.  Data was compared with a similar study in 2004 [FEZANA Journal, Winter 2004].   Some very significant (and rather alarming) observations are noted.

The estimated Zarathushti population of the world has declined by 11.0% since the 2004 study.  This has been weighted in large measure by very significant drops in the estimated populations of Iran (- 37.5%), India (-12.4%) and Pakistan (-21.0%).  Large percentage gains in the Diaspora countries, primarily USA (+32.5%), Canada (+7.5%), New Zealand (+36.8%) and Singapore (+129.6%) do not compensate for these losses.

The situation in India is further exacerbated by the high ratio of deaths to births.  In Mumbai, this ratio has increased at an alarming rate, from 303 deaths per 100 births in 1992, to 741 deaths per 100 births in 2011.  Over the past two decades (1992 – 2011) there were only3,456 births and a five times larger number of 17,715 deaths in Mumbai!   This study also presents distributions by age, sex and origin (Parsi/Iranian), but nothing very significant was observed.

Over the last two decades, there has been a very significant upward trend in the percentage of intermarriages as reported in Parsiana for Mumbai (from 20.5% in 1992 to 38.9% in 2011) and in FEZANA Journal for North America (from 23.7% in 1991 to approx. 60% for the last three years, 2009 – 2011).   On the optional survey questions about offspring of mixed marriages and conversions to/from the Zoroastrian faith, very few and sporadic responses were received (only from a few North American states/provinces, and not from any other country).  While probably not statistically significant, the data does indicate a disturbing number of children of mixed marriages and more so, their next generation, not following the Zarathushti religion. 

Disclaimer. While every effort has been made in good faith to seek out reliable sources, this compilation is not an official, statistically correct census.  The raw data is presented, as received, to get a flavor of the Zarathushti world. We leave it to the professional demographers to analyze the data, and determine its credibility and level of confidence.

These results were presented (along with an early history of Zarathushtis in North America) by Roshan Rivetna at the Congress in New York in August 2012.  To view the powerpoint slide presentation click here. To view the paper “The Zarathushti World – a Demographic Picture by Roshan Rivetna” (Version 3, dated 28Oct2012, which includes 2011 Iran Census results) click here.

Addressing the issues.  In India the population decline has been attributed primarily to low fertility rates, and the leadership is aware and taking measures to address those issues.  In the Diaspora communities, while there is population growth, indications are towards subtle decline due to assimilation and intermarriages.  We urge community leaders in the Diaspora to take strong measures to keep future generations within the fold.  We appeal to the worldwide leadership to take cognizance of these disturbing trends, seek the help of professional demographers, implement actions to address the special issues unique to each country, and work together towards a worldwide Zarathushti renaissance.

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 TORONTO, August 15, 2012 – It is ironic that as Zoroastrian leaders were holding up the Cylinder of Cyrus the Great, the Achemenian from Iran, as a symbol from antiquity of religious freedom and human rights at the 16th North American Zoroastrian Congress in New York, on August 5th, a suspect killed innocent worshippers who were gathering for a reading of the Sikh scriptures at a Gurudwara in Wisconsin.

This was a troubling day not only for Sikh-Americans, but for all peace loving Americans.  The response of the Sikh community of meeting violence with love, and praying not only for the families of the victims, but also for the family of the perpetrator of the uncalled violence is an uplifting message.

The selfless response of  first responders to this atrocity, speaks highly of the values of the United States, which is built on the foundation of promoting relgious freedom, attracting immigrants since its founding as the land of the free and the home of the brave.

We are grateful to the Ambassador of India to the United States, Her Excellency, Mrs. Nirupama Rao for visiting the Sikh Gurdwara in Wisconsin and promoting respect for diversity as a cornerstone in strengthening civil society.

Many members from FEZANA have been reaching out to our Sikh brethren to express heartfelt condolences to the affected families, the congregation of the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin and the wider Sikh community at Interfaith Vigils being held throughout North America.

Zoroastrians and Sikhs share a lot in common.  Both faith traditions are monotheistic.  One tenet of Sikhism is to take care of the poor and needy as is also taught in the Zoroastrian Yatha-Ahu-Variyo prayer. Both traditions take a proactive role in caring for creation. Both promote the idea of likeminded persons working togther for humankind, which the Sikhs call Sangat and the Zoroastrians call Hamazori.

Nationwide Vigils for Oak Creek Sikh Community

Attend or create a candlelight vigil or event near you in remembrance of the victims of the tragic shooting at the Oak Creek Gurdwara. This list will be updated as more events are planned.

https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msid=215183969110017658637.0004c69f996c59f8bc47b&msa=0

 About Zoroastrians

Zoroastrians serve as effective bridge builders as they see from their own faith, traditions of truth, righteousness, charity, beneficence and respect for creation reflected in traditions of the religions of both the occident and the orient. Zoroastrianism, founded circa 1500 BCE, is believed to have transmitted percepts such as the ultimate victory of good over evil and the resurrection of souls, through Judaism to Christianity, and later to Islam. Zoroastrianism flourished as the imperial religion of three Persian empires, those of the Achaemenians, Parthians and Sasanians, and was the dominant religion from Turkey, and eastward to China during those times. North America’s Zoroastrian community includes those who arrived from the Indian subcontinent, known as Parsis, and those who came directly from Iran seeking religious freedom.

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Application form for 2012 and the list of scholarships are now available online : 2012 Application Form

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ZOROASTRIAN DELEGATION TO DELIVER PANEL DISCUSSION AT UN HEADQUARTERS

AS PART OF THE 56^TH COMMISSION ON THE STATUS OF WOMEN (CSW)

NEW YORK, January 11, 2012 – FEZANA will be participating at the 56^th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) Conference to be held at the UN Headquarters in New York, USA.

Tanya Bharda, Kaizad Cama, Homi Gandhi, Afreed Mistry, Behram Pastakia and Freyaz Shroff from FEZANA will be representing the Zoroastrians at the UN.  Joining them from the Gram Seva Foundation will be Jay Boziceveh.  The group will be presenting a panel discussion titled, “NGO Learnings: Empowering Rural Women to Overcome Poverty & Hunger.”

Using specific case studies from field work in rural India, panelists will showcase successful projects addressing poverty and hunger eradication.  The work of Gram Seva Foundation, well established rural NGO, will be highlighted.   We will also be showcasing some of the good work being done by World Zoroastrian Organization Trust Funds (WZOTF).  Attendees will be able to take back ideas and strategies that can empower women in living healthier, happier lives.

The panel discussion details are:

Date:        Thursday, March 1st, 2012

Time:        6:15 pm to 7:45 pm

Location:  Church Centre, Boss Room, 8^th Floor, 777 United Nations Plaza, New York, NY

The Church Center is open to the public and visitors, so please encourage Zoroastrians and their friends to attend and support the presentation.

About United Nations

The United Nations is central to global efforts to solve problems that challenge humanity.   Cooperating in this effort are more than 30 affiliated organizations, known together as the UN system.  For more information visit www.un.org

About Zoroastrians

Zoroastrians serve as effective bridge builders as they see from their own faith, traditions of truth, righteousness, charity, beneficence and respect for creation reflected in traditions of the religions of both the occident and the orient. Zoroastrianism, founded circa 1500 BCE, credited to be the oldest monotheistic religion, is believed to have transmitted percepts such as the ultimate victory of good over evil and the resurrection of souls, through Judaism to Christianity, and later to Islam. Zoroastrianism flourished as the imperial religion of three Persian empires, those of the Achaemenians, Parthians and Sasanians, and was the dominant religion from Turkey, and eastward to China during those times. North America’s Zoroastrian community includes those who arrived from the Indian subcontinent, known as Parsis, and those who came directly from Iran seeking religious freedom.

About FEZANA

Founded in 1987, FEZANA serves as the coordinating body for 26 Zoroastrian associations and 10 small groups throughout the United States and Canada. FEZANA promotes the study, understanding and practice of the Zoroastrian faith in North America., represents the interests of its member associations, and carries out philanthropic and charitable activities worldwide. The FEZANA Journal, FEZANA’s publication of record, circulates to Zoroastrian households in more than 22 countries, as well as to scholars, academicians and religious organizations worldwide. For more information visit: www.fezana.org.

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Zoroastrians Moving Forward on 9/11:
              “From Different Walks, We Serve as One”

Washington, D.C., September 7, 2011 – The teachings of Zoroastrianism, the world’s first monotheistic religion, are still relevant in our world today.  Throughout their long history, Zoroastrians have displayed that they are a community dedicated to serving humanity through unity, good thoughts, good words, and good deeds.  “Hamma Zor”, “May we be united”.  On September 11th, our nation will pay tribute to those lost in the largest tragedy on American soil.  The destructive images of September 11, 2001 and the loss of our brave Fire Fighters and Rescue Workers, remind us of the “Amesha Spentas” (the Bountiful Immortals) and the  "Yazatas” (the Guardian Angels), through whom the works of God are evident to humanity.  The weeks leading to the 10th Anniversary of September 11th, individuals are uniting the same way they did a decade ago. 

On Sunday, September 11th, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. at the Washington Hebrew Congregation, hundreds will gather to honor the brave during the “9/11 Unity Walk”.   The Welcoming Ceremony and Program will begin at 1:30 p.m. and the 9/11 Unity Walk, will commence at 2:00 p.m.  Registration starts at the Hebrew Congregation, the Walk will proceed down Embassy Row, with option “Open House” stops enroute at the worship houses of many faiths located on Massachusetts Avenue.  There will be a brief program at the Islamic Center of Washington, DC concluding with a ceremony at the Gandhi Memorial.

Participants of the walk will be building bridges of respect for the world to model after.  Walkers will listen to moving speeches from international figures like Arun Gandhi, NPR’s Interfaith Voices host Maureen Fiedler, and award winning author Karen Armstrong.   The Unity Walk has broadened its impact by establishing year-round youth led services projects through the Interfaith Youth Action Group (IYAG). For more information on IYAG, please contact Kyle Poole (202) 262-2181 – Kyle@911unitywalk.org.  For Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s inspirational vision for humanity and the citizens of the world, please click here, Archbishop Desmond Tutu on 9/11 Unity Walk

The Federation of Zoroastrian Association of North America (FEZANA) will participate in the walk with supporters.

About FEZANA:  FEZANA, the umbrella organization for North American Zoroastrian association, has been a registered non-profit, religious, and charitable organization since 1987.  It is dedicated to the task of promoting the study, and understanding and practice of the Zoroastrian faith and the welfare of its followers.  It also coordinates programs promoting public awareness of Zoroastrianism.  FEZANA, as an NGO (non-governmental organization), maintains consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

Zoroastrianism: Zoroastrianism (also known as the Zarathushti religion or Zarathushtruanism) is acknowledged as one of the world’s oldest surviving monotheistic religions.  Once the state religion of the ancient Persian empires (including modern-day Iran), Zoroastrianism embraces the worship of one God (Ahura Mazda) and is based on the revelations and teaching of the prophet Zoroaster (Zarathustra) (circa 1400 B.C.E).  The Zoroastrian faith calls upon its followers to pursue an ethical life through a three-fold path of “Good Thoughts, Good Words, and Good Deeds”  In the past half-century, Zoroastrians have emigrated around the world, but the largest concentrations of Zoroastrians remain in India, where they are known as the Parsis, and in Iran. 

Contact: Zeeba S. Kayani, +1-281-610-6593, Zeeba.Kayani@gmail.com
FEZANA: www.fezana.org

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