About Alcoholics Anonymous

What is A.A.?

The following is the definition of Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) as it appears in the Fellowship’s foundational literature.
It is commonly read at the beginning of A.A. group meetings to introduce the purpose and spirit of the program:

“Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism.

The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for A.A. membership; we are self-supporting through our own contributions.

A.A. is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organization, or institution; does not wish to engage in any controversy; neither endorses nor opposes any causes.

Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.”

© 1947 by The A.A. Grapevine, Inc. Reproduced with permission.