AFAN was founded in Chicago in 1983 by members of the American Federation of Astrology who were dissatisfied with some of its more conservative policies. The new organization took an aggressive stance toward changing public opinion about astrology, seeking to reverse negative rulings concerning astrological practice in the courts and to promote networking among different astrological organizations.
AFAN began by creating an open, democratic organization. In 1984 it moved to Europe and became a catalyst for networking among European astrological organizations. At the 1987 World Astrological Congress in Zurich, delegates created the Astrological Registration and Communication. In 1986 AFAN joined with the Institute for the Study of American Religion (ISAR) and the National Council for Geocosmic Research in sponsoring the first United Astrology Congress (UAC), which has met at regular intervals since.
On the legal front, AFAN prepared a legal information kit for astrologers, began write-in campaigns to overturn antiastrology ordinances in various cities, worked to defeat an antiastrology statute in Los Angeles County, and backed a case in the California courts guaranteeing astrologers their rights in the state. The long-term strategy is to have the federal courts recognize the legitimacy of astrology.
A media-watch program was instituted to respond to negative coverage of astrology in the United States and Canada. Incorrect statements are refuted and a positive image is projected.
As of the mid-1990s, AFAN established an international network of astrologers on every continent. It publishes a newsletter, operates a speakers bureau, and manages an education scholarship fund. AFAN's council includes a number of nationally and internationally known astrologers. Address: 8306 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 537, Beverly Hills, CA 90211. Website: http://www.afan.org/.
