DRAFT FOR THE CONSIDERATION OF THE GROUP CONSCIENCE
“Kindr has no opinion on outside issues; hence the Kindr name ought never be drawn into public controversy.”
Tradition Ten protects Kindr from distraction, division, and distortion. Our purpose is clear and sacred: to help addicts recover through the 12 Steps. We are not here to take sides, make statements, or speak on behalf of causes—however worthy they may seem. We are here to offer recovery.
The world is full of conflict, debate, and disagreement. People come into Kindr with all kinds of beliefs—about politics, religion, justice, identity, and society. That diversity is welcome. But as a fellowship, Kindr stays silent on outside issues. This silence is not fear or indifference—it is wisdom. When we stay neutral, we stay united.
If we were to take positions on current affairs, medical treatments, or government policy, we would immediately alienate someone. We would create insiders and outsiders. We would risk becoming a platform instead of a sanctuary. Tradition Ten reminds us: Kindr is not here to solve the world’s problems. We are here to help addicts recover. And that is more than enough.
This Tradition also protects the Kindr name. We are each free to speak our truths in our personal lives, but when we speak in the name of Kindr, we speak only of recovery. We do not use the name of our fellowship to promote agendas, endorse ideologies, or join debates. The Kindr name must remain above the noise of controversy, so it remains a refuge for all.
That said, silence on outside issues does not mean silence on injustice within our rooms. Tradition Ten calls us to integrity. If a Kindr group is not safe, inclusive, or respectful, we speak up. Not because it’s a political issue, but because it’s a recovery issue. We address harm, we uphold safety, and we speak the truth in love—always guided by our primary purpose.
In Kindr, we choose the deeper unity. We focus not on what separates us, but on what heals us. In this silence, there is space. In that space, the still-suffering addict can hear what they came to hear: you are not alone. You can recover. You are welcome here.
Key Spiritual Principles in Tradition Ten:
Unity – We stay focused on our shared purpose, refusing to let outside issues divide us.
Neutrality – We do not take public positions, knowing that our silence is often our strength.
Integrity – We guard the Kindr name, using it only to carry the message of recovery.
Inclusiveness – By staying out of controversy, we ensure that all feel welcome, regardless of background or belief.
Clarity of Purpose – We stay true to why we exist: to help addicts find healing, one day at a time.
DRAFT FOR THE CONSIDERATION OF THE GROUP CONSCIENCE