The complaints department is closed.

There is no one to complain to in AA.

In exceptional circumstances, there is a grievance procedure within the service structure (see Concept V), and one can always make an exhibition of oneself by bringing one's complaints to a group conscience meeting, although that often creates more trouble than it solves. And one can submit a question for conference, but, really, there is no one to complain to. If there's a problem within the group, that will have to be solved within the group: Intergroup has no authority over groups; the power structure is inverted.

Here is what I've been told over the years:

Don't like the Big Book or other AA literature? Don't read it!

Don't like the Steps? Don't take them!

Don't like references to God? Ignore them!

Don't like spirituality? Ignore that too!

Don't like a particular meeting? Don't go!

Don't like a particular sponsor? Switch!

Don't like sponsorship? Don't have a sponsor!

Don't like suggestions or directions? Don't ask for them!

Don't like being challenged on your beliefs, thoughts, or behaviour? Don't submit them for scrutiny!

Don't like another AA member? Don't talk to them!

Don't like where they go for fellowship? Don't go!

I remember, many years ago, complaining about AA to someone.

She said: You know, you don't have to be here if you don't want to. No one is forcing you.

Unfortunately, in life, I can choose between only the available options.

Nothing else promised to treat my alcoholism and my other problems effectively.

AA did.

So my only option was to try it.

And the only sensible way to do so was to accept the tried-and-trusted way.

Now, I did not accept the tried-and-trusted way, at least not fully, for sixteen years, almost.

And I got sobriety but, otherwise, hit-and-miss results.

So anyone is welcome to 'do' AA however they wish, but the responsibility for the results lies with them. If you try another way, and it works, good luck to you! If you try another way, and it doesn't, we'll still be here.