Protecting another member
Knowing that someone attends A.A. does not make the information yours to publish
Each member decides if, when, and with whom to share personal recovery. Respecting another person’s anonymity means looking beyond names: a face, tag, location, relationship, event, or story can disclose A.A. membership just as clearly.
Read A.A.’s guidance for loved ones AA.orgConversation
Do not turn recognition into disclosure
Seeing someone at a meeting or learning about membership through a private relationship does not authorize telling coworkers, neighbors, relatives, or mutual friends.
Photos and tags
Context can identify a member
A group photo, meeting location, recovery caption, tag, or comment may disclose membership even when no one writes the words “A.A. member.”
Public figures
Fame does not reduce the protection
A.A.’s FAQ says public figures should receive the protection of anonymity to the extent they desire it. Recognition is not permission to confirm attendance.
Family and friends
Explain the principle plainly
People close to a member may meet sponsors or A.A. friends. A.A. asks loved ones to protect both the member’s choice and the anonymity of other members they encounter.
Obituaries and memorials
Protect living members
A.A. says the decision concerning a deceased member ultimately rests with the family, while living sponsors and A.A. friends should not be identified as such in notices, media, or online memorials.
Meetings and service
Use information only for its A.A. purpose
Contact lists, service rosters, and personal stories support group activity. They are not directories for outside use, promotion, gossip, or public content.
Protecting anonymity does not require protecting harmful behavior
A.A.’s safety answer is explicit: anonymity is not intended as a cloak for inappropriate or criminal conduct. A member may tell someone about harmful behavior or contact the proper authorities. The relevant disclosure should address the conduct and safety need rather than unnecessarily publicizing unrelated members.
Read the complete official answer anonymity and safety