Anonymity Facts

From Alcoholics Anonymous;

Facts about anonymity in A.A.

It is not the media’s responsibility to maintain our Traditions; it is our own individual responsibility.

• A.A. members generally think it unwise to break the anonymity of a member even after his or her death, but in each situation, the final decision must rest with the family.
• A.A. members may disclose their identity and speak as recovered alcoholics, giving radio, TV and Internet interviews, without violating the Traditions — so long as their A.A. membership is not revealed.
• A.A. members may speak as A.A. members only if their names or faces are not revealed. They speak not for A.A. but as individual members.
  

Experience suggests that A.A. members:

• Respect the right of other members to maintain their own anonymity at whatever levels they wish.
• When speaking as A.A. members at non-A.A. meetings, usually use first names only.
• Maintain personal anonymity in articles and autobiographies.
• Avoid the use of titles such as “A.A. counselor” when employed as professionals in the field of alcoholism (the title “alcoholism counselor” is preferred).
• Use last names within the Fellowship, especially for election of group officers and other service jobs.

Please – don’t let anyone chase you out of a meeting – your life is at stake!