Exposing the Dark Side: Battling Predators in AA Meetings
I definitely felt like I was going to be struck drunk if I didn't do what I was told. So everything that my gut was saying screaming, get away, get away, do something different, try something else out. I bawled in a meeting about how I felt in my gut that this was wrong, but I was terrified to change it because I didn't know if I was going to get drunk if I did.
Ever felt uneasy in a support group? Monica and Kali bring to light the troubling issue of '13 stepping' in Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. This episode of Safe Recovery dives deep into the unsettling world of sexual harassment, financial scams, and sponsorship abuse that some members face. Monica, a survivor of such predatory behavior, and Kali, who has also faced harassment, share their personal stories and the emotional toll these experiences have taken on them.
They discuss a grassroots movement that started in California and has now spread across the US, aiming to make AA meetings safer with the Make AA Safer Pamphlet. Over 65 meetings are now using this pamphlet to create safer spaces for everyone. This episode isn't just about exposing the problem; it's about finding solutions. Monica and Kali emphasize the importance of standing up against victimization and following proper protocols to protect oneself and others.
They also explore alternatives to AA for those seeking help with alcohol dependency, such as Women for Sobriety, offering a broader perspective on recovery. If you've ever felt out of place or unsafe in traditional recovery settings, this episode is a must-listen. It's a call to action for creating safer, more supportive environments for everyone seeking recovery.