The exhibition, titled "Darkness into Light" explores AA’s beginnings in Great Britain through to the thriving fellowship that serves the community today, highlighting its involvement in the community and recovery solutions which have helped millions of alcoholics to stop drinking and live happy, useful, sober lives.
For the first time, AA Great Britain has opened its archive to share images, recordings, literature, and artefacts to illustrate the charity’s journey to provide free and confidential support to anyone who has concerns about their drinking.
The exhibition, which is open at the KHLC until 29 October, is currently on a 12-stop tour of the UK, with Maidstone and then the Beaney museum and library in Canterbury being the final two venues.
It is free to attend and AA Members will be available during the exhibition on Saturday 22 October from 10am to 4pm to answer questions from visitors.
James Pearson, KCC’s Head of Libraries, Registration and Archives, told guests at a launch event: "When we were approached by Alcoholics Anonymous to hoist this exhibition, we were delighted to oblige. The concept fits perfectly with some of KCC’s major priorities, most obviously helping people to live well and helping communities to be resilient and connected."
"AA’s amazing reputation for helping people made it a very attractive partner for us. Our archives staff, who have been making arrangements for the exhibition, are passionate about making history accessible. They can empower people with facts and knowledge from the past that are capable of healing problems they experience in the present. The AA exhibition chimes perfectly with that work, as well as with the mission of the wider LRA service. That is why I/we wholeheartedly welcome its arrival here."
“We offer our warmest congratulations to the Alcoholics Anonymous organisation in Britain, on reaching its 75th birthday this year.”
Sarah Hohler, KCC’s Deputy Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services, said: "We offer our warmest congratulations to the Alcoholics Anonymous organisation in Britain, on reaching its 75th birthday this year. Alcohol abuse and alcohol addiction are pernicious problems that have far-reaching detrimental effects, affecting individuals, their families and the wider community. Around 70,000 adults in Kent are drinking at double the recommended safe levels or above. An estimated 19% are binge drinkers. As well as untold and incalculable harms at an individual and family level, the costs to the public purse are substantial."
“We convey our deepest appreciation for the good that Alcoholics Anonymous has done in our county then hope as many residents as possible will take the opportunity to visit the exhibition while it is at our two Kent venues."
The exhibition will be on display at The Beaney, Canterbury, from 12 November to 8 January.
ENDS.
