Safety

Tradition Five states: Each group has but one primary purpose — to carry its message to the alcoholic who still suffers.

This group strives to safeguard the anonymity of A.A. members and attendees; however, keep in mind that anonymity in A.A. is not a cloak for unsafe and illegal behavior. Addressing such behavior and/or contacting the proper authorities when appropriate, does not go against any A.A. Traditions and is meant to ensure the safety of all in attendance.

Any person seeking help with a drinking problem is welcome at this group. No A.A. entity determines an individual’s membership in Alcoholics Anonymous. It is this group’s conscience that if any person endangers another individual or disrupts the group’s efforts to carry A.A.’s message, the group may ask that person to leave the meeting.

The short form of Tradition One states: “Our common welfare should come first; personal recovery depends upon A.A. unity.” Recognizing the importance of group unity, our group strives to create a safe meeting environment in which alcoholics can focus on achieving sobriety.

Additional Sharing:
• Predatory behaviors and unwanted sexual advances are in conflict with carrying the A.A. message of recovery and with A.A. principles.
• A.A. does not provide medical advice or detox services; it has no opinion on outside issues, including medication. Medical advice should come from a qualified physician.
• The only requirement for A.A. membership is a desire to stop drinking. Groups and members strive to create a safe environment for the alcoholic who still suffers.
• If safety concerns arise, individuals can speak with a sponsor, members of the group, a trusted friend and/or a professional to address the concern. If your concerns are not answered, please speak to the group leadership or contact info@secularserenity.ca

For more information on this topic, see the service piece
“Safety and A.A.: Our Common Welfare” (SMF-209) at aa.org