Just a good reminder to be careful, don't automatically put your full trust in everyone, just because they are in recovery, EVEN if they have a lot of time! Be on the lookout for unhealthy behaviours, see if they walk their talk, and go to lots of different meetings. Any group that tries to prevent other groups “poaching” their members, or otherwise discourages going to other meetings, that is a BIG, red flag! As are a lot of other behaviours mentioned in the Newsweek article, which is about a lot more than just 13th stepping. 

MOST groups are, of course, not like that Midtown Group at all, but there are a few where that kind of thing is tolerated, encouraged, or even runs rampant, and we should always call that shit out. Our primary purpose is to stay sober, and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety!!

Despite the reluctance of many to speak out at the time, according to the Newsweek piece, citing, “anonymity”, AA's General Service Office has some very specific things to say about anonymity and the topics covered in these articles, including the fact that, "Anonymity is not a cloak protecting criminal behavior", “No one should have to tolerate racial, sexual orientation, gender, age or other discrimination when they seek help from A.A.”, and, “A.A. membership does not include having to tolerate sexual harassment, threats of violence, financial coercion, or bullying. Nor is pressuring A.A. members into a particular point of view or belief relating to medications, religion and other outside issues acceptable”, at the following links.

• Safety and A.A. Flyer
• Safety and A.A.: Our Common Welfare
• Safety Card for A.A. Groups (AKA Yellow Card)

Noonaroos' own Safety & Inclusion Policy was formed using these very resources, in fact.