The GreySheet community is a microcosm of the world and as such, it is vulnerable to the same challenges as any group of people. Recent incidents have highlighted the need for our fellowship to consider the issue of safety for our members and consider how we address inappropriate behavior both in and outside of GSA meetings and events.
We are guided by the First Tradition, “Our common welfare should come first, personal recovery depends upon GSA unity.” We also learn from the experience of Alcoholics Anonymous in addressing issues of safety, violence, and personal conduct (see links).
GSA World Services recommends that GSA intergroups and groups consider how they can promote appropriate behavior and safety for their members, both in and outside of meetings and events.
As a first step, GSA World Services recommends that GSA groups consider including in their meeting formats a statement regarding appropriate behavior.
In addition, GreySheeters Anonymous groups may consider adding the following guidance for those who feel threatened by the behavior of another member.
Tradition Five states, “Each group has but one primary purpose — to carry its message to the compulsive eater who still suffers.” GreySheeters Anonymous groups and members endeavor to create a safe environment in which the compulsive eater can focus on abstinence from compulsive eating. Although this group strives to safeguard the anonymity of GSA members and attendees, addressing unsafe and illegal behavior by contacting the proper authorities does not go against any GSA Traditions.
Links to A.A. Reference Materials
https://www.aa.org/assets/en_US/smf-209_en.pdf
https://www.aa.org/assets/en_US/f-211_SafetyCardforAAGroups.pdf
Changes to this Document
The originating committee and the Board of Trustees may make spelling, grammar, or formatting corrections to this document. The originating committee may make minor content changes to this document for clarity and to ensure it aligns with other GreySheeters Anonymous World Services decisions. The originating committee will follow the World Service Conference approval process for any substantive changes to the content.
Approvals
Board of Trustees: 7/19/2020
Amended: 5/19/2024
Intergroup Service Representatives and Committee Chairs: 8/8/2020
World Service Conference: 10/17/2021
More information: greysheet@greysheet.org