Montreal, October 21th, 2024 – It’s a festive convention that will bring together the members of Alcoholics Anonymous of the Greater Montreal area at CEGEP Maisonneuve, 2701 Nicolet St. (Joliette Metro), in Montreal next Saturday, October 26^th.

Two Milestone Anniversaries

The year 2024 marks the 80th year of existence of Alcoholics Anonymous in Montreal, its founder in Quebec, Dave B., having achieved sobriety in April of 1944. Another milestone being celebrated this year, is Grupo Hispano, the first Spanish-speaking group to open its doors in November 1974.

A Round Table Aimed at the Future

At the heart of the day’s activities, in addition to the historical testimonials, a unique round table organized by the Public Information Area Committee, will bring together AA members from various backgrounds, including young people and representatives from the LBGTQIA+, agnostic, Haitian and Lebanese communities. “What means and strategies can we think of to facilitate access to AA’s self-help program?” asks Renald D. of the Public Information Committee. “How can we reach more people – young and old – who are struggling with an alcohol addiction so that they can also benefit from one of the proven and free-of-charge recovery programs? I look forward to hearing from our panelist…”

Inclusion and support in three languages

AA’s 80 years of presence in Quebec among Anglophones and Francophones and 50 years of outreach to the Spanish-speaking population is a fine example of how the A.A. movement has diversified to include and support alcoholics from our diverse cultural communities.

About Alcoholics Anonymous

Founded in 1935, in the United States, Alcoholics Anonymous is a worldwide organization dedicated to helping people to stop drinking. The AA recovery program is based on 12 Steps that guide people towards an alcohol-free life. The fundamental principle is anonymity, enabling participants to focus on their personal recovery in a respectful, safe and non-judgmental environment.

For further Information, please contact:

Renald D.  e-mail: informationpublique@aa87.org  or tel.: 450 646 2869

Guylaine L.  e-mail: informationpublique-adj@aa87.org or tel.:506 576 9609

Or visit our website at:  https://dev.aa87.org

Invitation and Reminder

Journalists are cordially invited to attend the round table on the future of AA to be held in the Sylvain-Lelièvre Auditorium at CEGEP de Maisonneuve starting at 3:15 p.m. 

Please present yourself at the Welcome table in the foyer opposite the Sylvain-Lelièvre Auditorium to identify yourself and gain access. Ask for Renald D. and/or Guylaine L.

Interviews

It will be possible to meet panel participants and the moderator for any interviews you may wish. Other English-speaking members will also be available

Anonymity

Media representatives are always welcome at open AA meetings and events.

We ask, however, that they do not reveal the names of any of our members or take photographs that might make it possible to identify them.