Why Copyright Protection Matters

At Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA), we are committed to safeguarding the integrity of our program. Our literature, audio recordings, translations, and digital resources are developed with great care and often with the help of trusted volunteers and members. These materials embody the collective wisdom and spiritual principles of our Fellowship—and they are protected by copyright.

Why ACA Must Act When Infringement Occurs

Once ACA becomes aware of unauthorized use of its materials, we have a responsibility to respond to protect our legal rights and the integrity of the Fellowship. This responsibility involves consistent enforcement and helps preserve a clear, unified message.

What Is Copyright?

Copyright is a legal protection granted to creators of original works. It gives ACA the exclusive right to reproduce, distribute, display, perform, or adapt our materials. This includes:

  • Books such as the ACA Fellowship Text (the Big Red Book) and Strengthening My Recovery
  • Translated literature
  • Audio recordings and videos
  • Digital content on our website or apps

Why ACA Needs Copyright Protection

ACA’s mission is to carry the message to the adult child who still suffers. Copyright helps us protect this message by ensuring:

  • Fidelity: Our materials remain unaltered and true to ACA’s Steps, Traditions, and spiritual principles.
  • Quality: Literature and translations meet standards approved by the Fellowship through the WSO Literature and Translation Committees.
  • Global Unity: ACA materials shared around the world stay consistent and undistorted, regardless of language or location.
  • Financial Sustainability: Revenue from literature sales directly supports the ACA World Service Office, allowing us to serve meetings, develop new materials, and protect the Fellowship’s future.

What Violates ACA’s Copyright?

Copyright infringement can occur when individuals or groups:

  • Reproduce ACA literature or excerpts without permission or not in accordance with the ACA Literature Policy.
  • Translate and distribute ACA literature independently
  • Upload ACA publications to public or private online platforms
  • Modify ACA materials to suit personal or local preferences
  • Use ACA’s name or content for commercial gain

These actions, even when well-intentioned, undermine our unity and spiritual foundation. They can confuse members, introduce misinformation, and violate our 6th and 10th Traditions, which speak to outside affiliations and maintaining ACA unity.

How You Can Help

  • Purchase official ACA literature through authorized channels
  • Direct inquiries about translations or adaptations to the WSO
  • Report suspected copyright infringement to: [email protected]
  • Use brief excerpts for meeting readings in accordance with ACA Literature Policy and Fair Use (always credit ACA)
  • Encourage your group to respect and discuss copyright principles in your business meetings

We Are Stewards, Not Owners

As members of ACA, we are not the owners of this program—we are its stewards. Copyright is not about profit or exclusion; it is about preserving a clear message for future generations of adult children. With your help, we can ensure that ACA continues to thrive and transform lives around the world.