On the Issues: The Evolution of a Feminist Publication
Founded on the belief that women's perspectives and political power are essential to society, On the Issues emerged as a dedicated space for intellectual discourse. Established to cater to an audience of "thinking feminists," the publication has spent decades documenting and discussing the complexities of women's lives and rights.
The Origins and Vision of Merle Hoffman
The publication was started in 1983 by Merle Hoffman, a social psychologist with a deep commitment to women's autonomy. Hoffman's work with the magazine was an extension of her broader activism; in 1971, she established the Choices Women's Medical Center. As a pro-choice activist, Hoffman has consistently advocated for the idea that women's lives, thinking, votes, and power are of critical importance.
From Print to Digital Transformation
For its first two and a half decades, On the Issues operated as a quarterly print magazine. Based in New York, the publication functioned out of Forest Hills and Flushing, relying primarily on the contributions of freelance writers to build its content.
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As technology evolved, so did the magazine. In 1999, Hoffman introduced an online component to expand the reach of the publication's feminist discourse. By 2008, after 25 years of print production, the magazine ceased its physical printing and transitioned to an online-only format, relocating its base to Long Island City, New York.
Key Facts
- Founder: Merle Hoffman, a social psychologist and pro-choice activist.
- Established: 1983 as a quarterly print magazine.
- Target Audience: "Thinking feminists."
- Locations: Operated out of Forest Hills, Flushing, and Long Island City, New York.
- Digital Shift: Online presence added in 1999; became online-only in 2008.
- Related Venture: Choices Women's Medical Center, founded by Hoffman in 1971.
| Year | Event/Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1971 | Merle Hoffman establishes Choices Women's Medical Center |
| 1983 | On the Issues is launched as a quarterly print magazine |
| 1999 | Online component added to the magazine |
| 2008 | Transition to online-only format in Long Island City |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded On the Issues?
The magazine was founded by Merle Hoffman, a social psychologist and pro-choice activist.
What was the original purpose of the magazine?
It was created as a quarterly print publication intended for an audience of "thinking feminists."
When did the publication stop printing physical copies?
After 25 years of publishing, the magazine ceased printing in 2008 and moved to an online-only format.
Where has the magazine been based?
The publication has operated out of Forest Hills, Flushing, and Long Island City, all located in New York.
What other organization is associated with Merle Hoffman?
Merle Hoffman established the Choices Women's Medical Center in 1971.