We often receive inquiries regarding the photographs of people featured in our magazines. The Forum, Le lien, and En acción are committed to respecting the anonymity and privacy of our members. Based on Traditions Eleven and Twelve and the spiritual principle of anonymity, Al-Anon policy does not authorize the publishing of full-face images of those identified as Al‑Anon or Alateen members, and we adhere to that policy in all of our publications. This policy also applies to images on our al-anon.org website and official social media profiles and pages and is essential to protecting personal anonymity and maintaining the spirit of anonymity that is so vital to our fellowship.
However, to illustrate articles and enhance their visual appeal, we often use stock photography. Stock photos are professionally produced images that we purchase or license from reputable commercial sources. These photos may feature models who have given consent for their images to be used in publications. They are not identified as members of Al-Anon or Alateen, and their appearance is solely for illustrative purposes.
Photos submitted by members can be identified by the photo credit (“Photo by _____”). Member-submitted photos do not show faces.
We ensure transparency in every issue by including a disclaimer stating that, in keeping with our Traditions and the principle of anonymity, individuals shown in photographs are not identified as members of Al-Anon or Alateen. This disclaimer appears in the masthead on page 1 of The Forum, in the upper right-hand corner.
Our goal is to create attractive publications that feature timely sharings from Al-Anon and Alateen members, suggested meeting topics, and news and information from Al-Anon’s World Service Conference and the World Service Office, all while honoring the principles of Al‑Anon.
For more information, please refer to the “Anonymity” section of the “Digest of Al-Anon and Alateen Policies” in the Al-Anon/Alateen Service Manual (P-24/27).
The Forum, May 2026
“Inside Al‑Anon Family Groups” presents news, policy, and commentary from volunteers, staff and readers sharing experience through service. Please feel free to reprint these articles on your service structure website or newsletter, along with this credit line: Reprinted with permission of Al‑Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc., Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA.