AA Tradition 10 Checklist

The AA Tradition 10 Checklist is a vital tool in the practice of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). It serves as a guide to ensure that the principles and values of AA’s Tenth Tradition are upheld. This tradition emphasizes that AA as a whole should remain neutral and not take positions on outside issues, avoiding public controversy. The AA Tradition 10 Checklist helps members and groups maintain this neutrality and stay focused on their primary purpose: helping individuals recover from alcoholism. Here is a checklist to consider:

Details for AA Tradition 10 Checklist

1. Does our group avoid expressing opinions on political matters or social controversies:

AA groups should refrain from discussing or taking a stance on political or social issues during meetings or in any public forum.

2. Are we careful not to represent AA in public debates or media:

Members should avoid presenting themselves as representatives of AA in any public discussions, debates, or media appearances.

3. Do we refrain from taking stands on issues unrelated to alcoholism and recovery:

Groups should avoid getting involved in debates or discussions on topics that are not directly related to alcoholism and the recovery process.

4. Is our group's focus solely on carrying the message of recovery to alcoholics:

The primary purpose of AA groups is to provide support and guidance to individuals seeking recovery from alcoholism.

5. Do we avoid endorsing or opposing any causes, even if some members are passionate about them:

AA groups should not officially endorse or oppose any causes, charitable organizations, or political movements, even if individual members have strong opinions about them.

6. Do we avoid endorsing or opposing any causes, even if some members are passionate about them:

Care should be taken when using the AA name or symbols in any context outside of AA meetings or literature, as it should not be associated with outside issues.

7. Do we respect the diverse beliefs and opinions of our members, promoting unity and common purpose:

AA groups should foster an environment of respect and unity, where members of various backgrounds and beliefs can come together for a common purpose: recovery from alcoholism.

8. Are we mindful not to allow outside issues to distract us from our primary goal of helping alcoholics:

AA groups should prioritize their primary mission of helping individuals with alcoholism, ensuring that outside issues do not divert their focus.

FAQ for AA Tradition 10 Checklist

1. Can AA members have individual opinions on political or social issues?

Yes, AA members can have their own personal opinions, but it's important to separate those opinions from the group's activities and not express them during AA meetings or events.

2. What happens if an AA group becomes involved in a public controversy?

It is advised that the group immediately reassesses its actions and strives to return to the principles of Tradition 10 by maintaining neutrality on outside issues.

3. Are AA groups allowed to support charitable causes or community activities?

AA groups should avoid officially endorsing or supporting any outside causes, charities, or activities. However, individual members are free to participate in such activities on a personal level.

4. Can AA groups use the AA name in non-AA publications or events?

It is generally discouraged, as using the AA name in non-AA contexts may lead to confusion and go against the principles of Tradition 10. Care should be taken to avoid such usage.

5. What should I do if I feel that my AA group is deviating from Tradition 10?

You can raise your concerns within the group's discussions and meetings. Emphasize the importance of adhering to AA traditions and principles to help steer the group back on course.

In Summary

The AA Tradition 10 Checklist serves as a crucial tool in ensuring that AA groups and members uphold the principles of the Tenth Tradition. By maintaining neutrality on outside issues and focusing on their primary purpose of helping individuals recover from alcoholism, AA groups can create an environment of unity, respect, and support. While individual members are entitled to their personal opinions, the checklist helps guide AA groups in their commitment to carrying the message of recovery without being drawn into public controversy or distractions from their core mission.

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