Monday, April 16, 2018

The Gay Vegans: Speaking Out Against Sexism in Recovery

By Dan Hanley

I have written about being in recovery. The fellowship in recovery saved my life, and adds so much to my life. I want to make this clear as I share that recently I have had to listen to sexist bullshit from men attending meetings. Making sexual comments about women, women there to get sober. This is not new, I just haven’t personally heard it in a while.

I keep thinking about it. I keep thinking about the need to create safe spaces for women. If a woman who is trying to get clean and sober does not feel safe at a meeting where others are gathered for the same reason, well that is simply a fucked up situation. Then I think of others, like people of color and members of the LGBTQ communities, but that’s another post.

Alcoholism and drug addiction kill people. In fact, they are killing more people today than ever. We must ensure everyone coming to a meeting to get clean or sober doesn’t experience harassment. We need to talk about it. We need to call it out.

Yes, this is a rant. If you work the twelve steps and are familiar with the program, rest assured I am working my program around this.

Thanks for reading.

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If you think you may be a drug addict and would like help, or to find a meeting, click here.