What AA has to say

"In the last years, AA groups have welcomed many new members from court programs and treatment facilities. Some have come to AA voluntarily; others, under a degree of pressure. In our pamphlet `How AA Members Cooperate,' the following appears:

"We cannot discriminate against any prospective AA member, even if he or she comes to us under pressure from a court, an employer, or any other agency.

"Although the strength of our program lies in the voluntary nature of membership in AA, many of us first attended meetings because we were forced to, either by someone else or by inner discomfort. But continual exposure to AA educated us to the true nature of the illness....Who made the referral to AA is not what AA is interested in. It is the problem drinker who is our concern....We cannot predict who will recover, nor have we the authority to decide how recovery should be sought by any other alcoholic.

"Sometimes, courts ask for proof of attendance at AA meetings. Some groups, with the consent of the prospective member, have the AA group secretary sign or initial a slip that has been furnished by the court with a self-addressed court envelope....This proof of attendance at meetings is not part of AA's procedure."

(04-18-02) [[In-content Ad]]