The Anonymous People

I am so happy to be a part of this movement! People in recovery deserve to be treated with respect this same way any other person with a disease is. Please go see it or become a team captain to get it to your town. I di, and we sold 176 seats! Everyone was fired up when the left and want to organize to help reduce the stigma. AWESOME!I bought the DVD of the movie and I am showing it to people who couldn't make it the night it played at the movies!As a result of this movie, people all over the Untited States are now organizing so our voices can be heard! Even Bill W. shared his story to help AA when he thought it was appropriate. Well, I think now it is more appropriate than ever! Go see the film!

As a person in long term recovery myself, I appreciate that this movie made me think more intimately about the way that I choose to share or not share that information with others. It has long been obvious and frustrating to me how many people's lives are wasted because they cannot access adequate recovery from the disease of addiction. It did not previously occur to me that I could be influential in any way with regard to that problem. I am a teacher and generally hold my cards close. What would the community, parents, or my co-workers think if they knew this "dirty" secret from my past? On the other hand, I am proud of what I've accomplished. Maybe they would think that I am an amazing, talented, kind, generous,intelligent, responsible person, with integrity, who has overcome adversity, raised two children who have never had to witness parents using, who volunteers in the community, and contributes to society. Maybe others who are struggling might see that and get a glimmer of hope for themselves? I can appreciate the premise, and the hope, that if more people like me stood up and let the light shine on who we are, and how many we are, that it would no longer be a dirty little secret, but a proud accomplishment. We would not be seen as dirty, creepy, dangerous criminals, but people with a disease who are worthy and entitled to adequate health care & recovery. If it were not for seeing this movie, I probably would not have posted this in a public space. I am a person in long term recovery. For me that means that I have not had a drink or a drug since June 4, 1989. I write, I vote, and I make a positive difference in the world. Thank you to the producers of Anonymous People for reminding me that we are many, we are awesome, we are powerful, and we can change the world.

As a person in long-term recovery (37 years), I found this film to be highly inspirational! "The Anonymous People" is a rich social document that presents a history of the struggle folks like I have had to dispel stigma and feelings of shame or embarrassment about being an alcoholic/addict. The film demonstrates that for those of us who do successfully recover ~ we can become beacons of light and hope to those who still suffer from this illness ~ including our loved-ones! This film is an important vehicle by which we can further educate policy-makers and the general public about the value of entering into and maintaining recovery. The film's Director, Greg Williams, is extremely knowledgeable and respectful of 12-Step principals. The position he takes on the issue of anonymity is supported by Alcoholics Anonymous World Services. I urge all with a loved-one suffering from addiction, or themselves with a drinking/drug problem or in recovery, and their friends & neighbors to watch this inspiring historic documentary film.

The Anonymous People is an honest look at the reality of recovery through the actual lives of individuals in long term recovery. It is designed to celebrate recovery and recognize that many individuals in long term recovery are contributing members of our society. I was pleased that it did NOT glorify the addiction but rather Glorified the process of Recovery. The individuals who are shown in this film are honest, hard working individuals who have struggled through addiction and are now on the other side and reaching out to help others. This movie can begin the process of reducing stigma and overcoming some of the obstacles people face in achieving long term recovery. Congratulations and THANK YOU to all who were involved in this project.

This movie talks about the one topic that has been in the dark for a long time. It gives the person that is just coming into recovery hope. I have used it so many times to give the newcomer hope. When I a person is confronted with the disease of addiction it is like any other disease. Denial sets in. While in the middle of getting help and dealing with the denial a movie like this will help them know that they are not alone and that recovery is possible. What is wrong with that. I would say it is a 12 step help movie. But it is not bound by the old misconceptions of a fellowship. I need to add there is nothing wrong with 12 step fellowships. But they needed help to get the message across. And this movie by Greg Williams is the best that I seen in a long time. Bravo to all that were involved.