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"Shameful Shunning" - in English and Dutch
Shameful Shunning in a Thousand Words Beschamende ‘Shunning’ in minder duizend woorden Dutch translation and dual language format courtesy of Patrick…
AAWA Videos
AAWA Videos Watchtower Truths: Children in Danger (Sexual Abuse) - October, 2013 Watchtower and Teenagers - July, 2013 Watchtower Truths: Children…
AAWA's Plan of Action
AAWA’s Key Strategies for 2017 Make AAWA.CO an easy website to navigate for visitors who want current and relevant information about abusive Watchtower…
AAWA's Successes
AAWA - Looking Back, Looking Forward While financing our activities with mostly personal funds, thanks to hundreds of volunteer hours we were able to expand…
About AAWA
ADVOCATES for AWARENESS of WATCHTOWER ABUSES (AAWA) is an international not-for-profit educational organization, with 501 (c) (3) tax exempt status, dedicated…
- Comment Guidelines
  What are AAWA's guidelines for posting comments and responses to comments? Thou shall... Be courteous and respectful toward the author of the post/page. …
- Contact Us
  If you would like to contact us for further information, to make suggestions, or comment on any of our articles or activities, please send your email to the…
- FAQs
  Your Questions Why are you against the Watchtower? Do you believe Watchtower is a cult? Are you a hate group? Are you a religious organization? D…
- How You Can Help
  We need your support! Here are ways you can help AAWA achieve its goals: AAWA needs cash donations to help fund the many projects we have planned. We…
- Privacy Policy
  Privacy Policy How We Collect and Use Information About You Information you provide us directly: We ask for certain information such as your username,…
- Terms of Use
  Website Terms of Use Prepared by SEQ Legal Website Terms and Conditions Introduction: These terms of use govern your use of our website; by using our…
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JW Crime Map
AAWA JW Crime Map Project We are pleased to announce the creation and addition of AAWA JW Crime map on aawa.co. It is a map and database of crimes committed…
L'ostracisme honteux en mille mots
Posté le 3 novembre 2013 par Rick Gonzalez - Traduction française par "GJ" Prendre un repas en famille . . . Ceci est une photo de mon père en…
Media & Press
AAWA Official Press Releases listed most recent to earliest... Press & Media Contact: MEDIA@AAWA.co
Mission Statement
Advocates for Awareness of Watchtower Abuses (AAWA) is an international non-profit education-focused organization, with 501 (c) (3) tax exempt status. Its…
Our Open Offer
AAWA extends an open offer to any concerned and productive member of society to discuss ways in which the Watchtower can continue its religious activities…
Publications
The following is a directory to lists of AAWA's current publications, handouts, documents, and scripts you can use for public presentations. Flyers and…
- AAWA Newsletters
  Click on graphic to download PDF version of Newsletters Click on graphic to download PDF version of Newsletters We welcome your…
- Flyers and Handouts
  Looking for a ready-made handbill or flyer for a presentation at a Meetup group or to drop off at local churches? Need something to give to friends wanting…
Volunteer
Please note: This page uses a secure automated form delivery system. AAWA seeks to work with competent and committed individuals both inside and outside…
Welcome
AAWA.co welcomes you to the official website of Advocates for Awareness of Watchtower Abuses, an International Educational Organization, with 501 (c) (3) tax…

Articles

Category: Book Reviews (6)
- Opening Minds: A Book Review by: Richard E. Kelly (8)
  December 15, 2015, 11:50
  Richard Kelly's review of Jon Atack's new book opening minds: the secret world of manipulation, undue influence and brainwashing How would I describe Jon…
- A Resource: Therapy for ex-Jehovah's Witnesses by: Richard E. Kelly (19)
  July 4, 2015, 23:43
  I realize that it’s just a book, but I suspect readers will develop a very comfortable relationship with Bonnie Zieman during the course of their read. She…
- Are Jehovah's Witnesses a Cult? by: Richard E. Kelly (50)
  February 16, 2015, 09:21
  Report by Richard E. Kelly I am often asked, "Are Jehovah’s Witnesses a cult?" In fact - it's likely that many Jehovah's Witnesses may wonder and ask…
- Cognitive Dissonance and Jehovah's Witnesses by: Richard E. Kelly (21)
  September 10, 2015, 16:38
  A REVIEW BY RICHARD E. KELLY In his breakthrough 1956 book, When Prophecy Fails, Leon Festinger hooks the reader in his very first paragraph, “A man…
- Destructive and Terrorist Cults: A New Kind of Slavery by: Richard E. Kelly (3)
  October 10, 2014, 11:50
  A Book Report by Richard E. Kelly Masoud Banisadr I have read few books that have enlightened me more than Masoud Banisadr’s Destructive and Terrorist…
- Your Biography Becomes Your Biology by: Richard E. Kelly (15)
  October 2, 2015, 08:35
  By Bonnie Zieman In a recent Facebook post, Bo Juel initiated an important conversation about how people leave the Watchtower, and whether or not they leave…
Category: Featured (3)
- Cognitive Dissonance and Jehovah's Witnesses by: Richard E. Kelly (21)
  September 10, 2015, 16:38
  A REVIEW BY RICHARD E. KELLY In his breakthrough 1956 book, When Prophecy Fails, Leon Festinger hooks the reader in his very first paragraph, “A man…
- Resources: Identifying and Resisting "Undue Influence" by: Richard E. Kelly (3)
  June 23, 2015, 23:12
  This is the third and final article in a series about the clear and present danger of undue influence in the manipulative hands of charlatans, con artists,…
- TRUTH BE TOLD - Press Release by: AAWA Editorial Staff (2)
  January 5, 2015, 17:22
  The following press release is being distributed to news agencies and other media groups on January 5, 2015. SMITHKRAFT PRODUCTIONS Contact: Greg…
Category: French Translations (5)
- Cognitive Dissonance and Jehovah's Witnesses by: Richard E. Kelly (21)
  September 10, 2015, 16:38
  A REVIEW BY RICHARD E. KELLY In his breakthrough 1956 book, When Prophecy Fails, Leon Festinger hooks the reader in his very first paragraph, “A man…
- Let Me Repeat: "Undue Influence" is a Growing Plague by: Richard E. Kelly (6)
  June 17, 2015, 11:01
  After reading my first article on the prevalence and danger of "undue influence," I'm sure that many of you may have questioned my ability to edit my own…
- Resources: Identifying and Resisting "Undue Influence" by: Richard E. Kelly (3)
  June 23, 2015, 23:12
  This is the third and final article in a series about the clear and present danger of undue influence in the manipulative hands of charlatans, con artists,…
- Undue Influence – A Significant Threat? by: Richard E. Kelly (8)
  June 10, 2015, 20:20
  I am deeply concerned about the growing menace of undue influence in our society and how quickly it takes place in the manipulative hands of terrorist…
- Watchtower and Blood: Ever Changing by: AAWA Editorial Staff (12)
  July 1, 2015, 20:24
  Those of us who have followed the subject and watched the Blood Doctrine morph over the years, realize that the Watchtower's leaders are making it up as they…
Category: Gender Abuse (1)
- Love & Sex: What I’ve Learned Since Leaving Watchtower by: Mickey Hudson (Danmera) (50)
  January 19, 2014, 10:50
  Growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness (JW) can warp and twist a young person’s mind about many activities, sex in particular. At least that’s how it was for…
Category: Inside AAWA (9)
- A Few Updates About Our Volunteers and Projects by: Mickey Hudson (Danmera) (5)
  October 19, 2013, 09:27
  While it may seem that things have slowed down a bit on the AAWA front, I can assure you that we have definitely not been idle. Let me share just a few…
- A new name - and an apology by: Editorial Staff (13)
  April 25, 2013, 07:04
  On April 24, AAWA undertook a major change when it decided to rename itself as "Advocates for Awareness of Watchtower Abuses." Shortly after AAWA’s…
- AAWA - The Next Six Months by: AAWA Editorial Staff (4)
  October 3, 2013, 00:19
  Just six months ago, when AAWA first went public, our primary focus was on structuring an organization that would educate the non-Jehovah's Witness world…
- AAWA Autumn Update by: Editorial Staff
  September 11, 2013, 19:37
  While activity on this website has been a little slow over the past couple of months, all of us at AAWA have been very busy working in the background. As the…
- AAWA Rewarded with Tax Exempt Status from IRS by: Richard E. Kelly (11)
  June 18, 2015, 03:53
  AAWA now qualifies as a non-profit charity We are pleased to announce that on April 17, 2015, Advocates for Awareness of Watchtower Abuses (AAWA) was…
- AAWA Wishes You a Happy 2014 by: Lee Marsh (13)
  January 3, 2014, 19:19
  We were barely into the new year of 2013 when a small group of people started to talk about a new way of dealing with the Watchtower Society. Who would…
- An eventful journey – summing up AAWA’s launch by: Editorial Staff (1)
  April 24, 2013, 19:25
  The days following AAWA's launch had their highs and lows, but the organization is stronger for the lessons learned. Since mid-January, hours of phone…
- Blood Transfusions - Watchtower "Truth" vs. Fact by: AAWA Editorial Staff (7)
  July 15, 2014, 08:34
  According to Lee Elder, Director of AJWRB (Associated Jehovah's Witness for Reform on Blood), most Jehovah’s Witnesses believe "...blood transfusions are bad…
- Our First Anniversary: What a year it has been! by: Lee Marsh (4)
  April 6, 2014, 00:01
  Over a year ago, a group of compassionate and caring people began discussing the possibility of setting up a not-for-profit organization that would shine the…
Category: Latest News (106)
- "Truth Be Told" - the Current Status of Gregorio Smith's Documentary by: Richard E. Kelly (16)
  December 3, 2014, 11:00
  The big buzz within the ex-Jehovah's Witness community over the past eighteen months has been news about Gregorio Smith and his documentary film "Truth Be…
- "Truth Be Told" - How Successful Could it Be? by: Richard E. Kelly (10)
  July 19, 2014, 23:54
  I am very excited about the potential for Gregorio Smith’s compelling, fast-moving documentary, "Truth Be Told." I am sure that if it is seen by enough…
- Opening Minds: A Book Review by: Richard E. Kelly (8)
  December 15, 2015, 11:50
  Richard Kelly's review of Jon Atack's new book opening minds: the secret world of manipulation, undue influence and brainwashing How would I describe Jon…
- A Few Updates About Our Volunteers and Projects by: Mickey Hudson (Danmera) (5)
  October 19, 2013, 09:27
  While it may seem that things have slowed down a bit on the AAWA front, I can assure you that we have definitely not been idle. Let me share just a few…
- A Letter of Gratitude to AAWA from a Jehovah's Witness by: Lee Marsh (33)
  September 29, 2015, 08:00
  By Lee Marsh We often think that nothing we do has any real effect on Jehovah's Witnesses. However, just a couple of days ago, I received an email thanking…
- A new name - and an apology by: Editorial Staff (13)
  April 25, 2013, 07:04
  On April 24, AAWA undertook a major change when it decided to rename itself as "Advocates for Awareness of Watchtower Abuses." Shortly after AAWA’s…
- A Resource: Therapy for ex-Jehovah's Witnesses by: Richard E. Kelly (19)
  July 4, 2015, 23:43
  I realize that it’s just a book, but I suspect readers will develop a very comfortable relationship with Bonnie Zieman during the course of their read. She…
- A Statement by David Clohessy of SNAP by: Editorial Staff (16)
  February 15, 2014, 10:29
  For 25 years I've been the director of SNAP, the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, the world’s oldest and largest support group for clergy…
- AAWA - The Next Six Months by: AAWA Editorial Staff (4)
  October 3, 2013, 00:19
  Just six months ago, when AAWA first went public, our primary focus was on structuring an organization that would educate the non-Jehovah's Witness world…
- AAWA Announces "Watchtower Victims Memorial Day" by: AAWA Editorial Staff (5)
  June 24, 2014, 18:13
  PRESS RELEASE - Watchtower Victim’s Memorial Day July 26 – A day to remember and to end shunning As Jehovah’s Witnesses continue their convention…
- AAWA Announces New "Support Forum" by: Lee Marsh (11)
  July 1, 2013, 08:38
  As of Monday July 1, 2013 AAWA is introducing a new online support forum. The Forum will focus on recovery issues of Jehovah's Witnesses who have already left…
- AAWA Autumn Update by: Editorial Staff
  September 11, 2013, 19:37
  While activity on this website has been a little slow over the past couple of months, all of us at AAWA have been very busy working in the background. As the…
- AAWA Contributes Behind the Scenes by: Richard E. Kelly (3)
  December 31, 2015, 00:40
  Since its start-up in March 2013, AAWA’s mission has been: To educate non-Jehovah’s Witnesses (those who are not JWs and not ex-JWs) around the world about…
- AAWA Rewarded with Tax Exempt Status from IRS by: Richard E. Kelly (11)
  June 18, 2015, 03:53
  AAWA now qualifies as a non-profit charity We are pleased to announce that on April 17, 2015, Advocates for Awareness of Watchtower Abuses (AAWA) was…
- AAWA Welcomes UK Charity Commission Inquiries by: Editorial Staff (2)
  June 18, 2014, 19:14
  PRESS RELEASE - AAWA welcomes Charity Commission’s opening of “statutory inquiries” into Jehovah’s Witnesses in the UK June 17, 2014 Advocates…
- AAWA Wishes You a Happy 2014 by: Lee Marsh (13)
  January 3, 2014, 19:19
  We were barely into the new year of 2013 when a small group of people started to talk about a new way of dealing with the Watchtower Society. Who would…
- AAWAke! is here! Read it now! by: Steph Le Gardener (8)
  July 25, 2013, 02:58
  AAWAke! NewsletterGreetings from AAWA’s Newsletter Team! We are pleased to announce that our latest newsletter is now available along with a few other…
- An eventful journey – summing up AAWA’s launch by: Editorial Staff (1)
  April 24, 2013, 19:25
  The days following AAWA's launch had their highs and lows, but the organization is stronger for the lessons learned. Since mid-January, hours of phone…
- Are Jehovah's Witnesses a Cult? by: Richard E. Kelly (50)
  February 16, 2015, 09:21
  Report by Richard E. Kelly I am often asked, "Are Jehovah’s Witnesses a cult?" In fact - it's likely that many Jehovah's Witnesses may wonder and ask…
- Australian TV Viewers See and Hear "JW Facts" by: AAWA Editorial Staff (8)
  August 11, 2015, 22:00
  There are many websites online that consider all sides of the Watchtower organization and Jehovah's Witnesses. Many of the better-known discussion and archive…
- Blood Deaths: Watchtower Claims It's a Myth by: Editorial Staff (16)
  January 29, 2014, 00:51
  The Watchtower Society wants you to believe that reports of Jehovah's Witnesses needlessly dying each year because they refuse blood transfusions are mythical…
- Blood Transfusions - Watchtower "Truth" vs. Fact by: AAWA Editorial Staff (7)
  July 15, 2014, 08:34
  According to Lee Elder, Director of AJWRB (Associated Jehovah's Witness for Reform on Blood), most Jehovah’s Witnesses believe "...blood transfusions are bad…
- Brett and Naghmeh King's decision to allow blood transfusions - AJWRB Press Statement by: AAWA Editorial Staff (12)
  September 15, 2014, 19:29
  The Associated Jehovah's Witnesses for Reform on Blood (AJWRB) welcome and fully support Brett and Naghmeh King's decision to allow blood transfusions for…
- Can AAWA Make It Happen? by: Richard E. Kelly (6)
  June 29, 2013, 12:39
  When the formation of AAWA was first announced to the public less than three months ago, I thought it was a worthy goal to try to rally ex-Jehovah's Witnesses…
- Can you be any happier than this? by: Editorial Staff (7)
  April 16, 2014, 21:23
  John Cedars and friends (including a few who are AAWA advisors and volunteers) have put together this light-hearted and joyful video based on the widely…
- Child Abuse and The Watchtower by: Paul Grundy (9)
  June 27, 2013, 20:09
  Jehovah’s Witnesses have received global media attention for their child protection policies, which put children at risk and serve to protect pedophiles. It…
- Children in Harm's Way: Watchtower & Sexual Abuse by: Steph Le Gardener (16)
  October 9, 2013, 22:00
  Children are a priceless gift to be nurtured and protected by loving, caring adults. Unfortunately, one of our most vulnerable populations is suffering every…
- Claiming Your Repressed Authentic Identity by: Richard E. Kelly (12)
  March 1, 2016, 20:07
  By Richard E. Kelly Finding and claiming one’s repressed authentic identity will not be easy for most adults who were raised as children by Jehovah’s…
- Cognitive Dissonance and Jehovah's Witnesses by: Richard E. Kelly (21)
  September 10, 2015, 16:38
  A REVIEW BY RICHARD E. KELLY In his breakthrough 1956 book, When Prophecy Fails, Leon Festinger hooks the reader in his very first paragraph, “A man…
- Cult Experts Hold Press Conference at London College by: Editorial Staff (5)
  August 23, 2014, 11:05
  Experts mingled with cult survivors and members of the press before launching into nearly two hours of presentations and questions at a press conference at…
- Das Kontaktverbot der Wachtturmgesellschaft und die absurden Folgen by: Lee Marsh (1)
  January 28, 2015, 23:10
  Das ist das Bild von meinem Vater beim Essen. Rick Gonzalez Die Ältesten der Versammlung hatten ihm erlaubt, das wir ihn, obwohl wir ausgeschlossen si…
- Debunking Watchtower Misinformation For and About Women by: AAWA Editorial Staff (15)
  March 7, 2014, 00:01
  Contributed by: Sue Hall I was recently reminded of the damaging effect of Watchtower misinformation about women, and how and why many Jehovah’s Witness…
- Déclaration de liberté by: Lee Marsh (1)
  January 6, 2015, 15:20
  Il y a quelques années, je devais faire le bilan de ce que je l'avais laissé et de ce que j'avais maintenant. J'avais peur de quitter les Témoins, et je…
- Destructive and Terrorist Cults: A New Kind of Slavery by: Richard E. Kelly (3)
  October 10, 2014, 11:50
  A Book Report by Richard E. Kelly Masoud Banisadr I have read few books that have enlightened me more than Masoud Banisadr’s Destructive and Terrorist…
- Does Watchtower Psychologically Manipulate Jehovah's Witnesses? by: Richard E. Kelly (19)
  February 15, 2016, 03:31
  By Richard E. Kelly In Robert Jay Lifton’s groundbreaking book, Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism, Lifton describes the eight methods of…
- Equal Rights for All: Not for Jehovah’s Witnesses? by: Richard E. Kelly (8)
  December 27, 2013, 23:39
  As a follow-up to our earlier article "Exposing the Watchtower’s Flawed Domestic Violence Policy," I would recommend that you also read "How Do Jehovah’s…
- Ex-JWs: Stop Respecting the Watchtower’s Wishes by: AAWA Editorial Staff (45)
  March 1, 2014, 00:01
  Contributed by: Jeni Lundblom–Valdez In a few weeks, it will be twelve years since I cut ties with the Watchtower. After committing the defiant act of…
- Exposing the Watchtower's Flawed Domestic Violence Policy by: Editorial Staff (29)
  December 13, 2013, 20:17
  You may find it difficult to imagine that in these modern times that anyone could believe that a wife, "a lowly woman," should be subservient to an abusive…
- Family after Leaving by: Lee Marsh (4)
  December 12, 2016, 17:52
  So often after leaving the Witnesses, we believe that we are alone. We have left all our Witness friends and family and because we had no one outside, we…
- Happy New Year 2016 by: Lee Marsh (9)
  January 1, 2016, 22:57
  This past year has seen so many people experience various joys and sorrows. Many have had serious struggles. It has been wonderful to watch the amazing…
- Help Pass the New York "Child Victims Act" by: AAWA Editorial Staff (3)
  April 19, 2014, 00:59
  New York State Assembly Chamber PRESS RELEASE - When you scan recent media headlines, you are likely to see more stories about Jehovah’s Witnesses…
- Helping Families Cope with a Cult Member by: Lee Marsh (3)
  August 24, 2016, 15:00
  Just Like the Watchtower Interesting things that I learned at the 2016 ICSA Conference By Lee Marsh on August 16, 2016 One of the most interesting things…
- How the Watchtower Justifies its Crimes by: AAWA Editorial Staff (29)
  March 15, 2014, 20:17
  Contributed by: Louise Goode It was not the kind of decision that the Watchtower Society expected, as successfully justifying its crimes to members and…
- How the Watchtower Uses Undue Influence to Enforce Its Blood Policy by: Editorial Staff (43)
  April 13, 2014, 04:41
  Contributed by: Marc Latham Cora and I have never felt better about a visit to the hospital than we did on Friday, March 28, 2014. It wasn't a routine…
- If this is love... by: Steph Le Gardener (10)
  June 15, 2014, 18:06
  How many times have you heard the scripture quoted that says we must "love our neighbor as ourselves?" It’s one of those scriptures that most people have…
- International experts meet in London to discuss "UNDUE INFLUENCE" of extremist groups by: AAWA Editorial Staff (10)
  August 15, 2014, 18:43
  A group of international experts will come together in London on the weekend of August 22-24, 2014 to address some of the major concerns relating to the undue…
- I’m Proud I Went to College! by: Editorial Staff (19)
  September 30, 2013, 03:20
  Contributed to AAWA by Brock Talon I am very proud I went to college! And, in spite of what most Jehovah’s Witnesses might think, I’m sure I did the right…
- Jehovah's Witnesses "will comply with mandatory reporting of child abuse" by: AAWA Editorial Staff (21)
  August 4, 2015, 20:18
  A representative of the Jehovah’s Witnesses in Australia stated in Royal Commission hearing that the organization "will comply with mandatory reporting…
- Jehovah's Witnesses and Higher Education by: Paul Grundy (5)
  November 11, 2013, 10:06
  Jehovah’s Witnesses are advised against pursuing a higher education, with the Watchtower regularly providing warnings that attending university is an…
- Jehovah's Witnesses claim to have "The Truth" - Do they? by: Richard E. Kelly (24)
  September 28, 2015, 18:33
  By Richard E. Kelly Jehovah's Witnesses often refer to themselves as having "The Truth" - but they also believe that it is okay - and even appropriate at…
- Jehovah's Witnesses Should be Included in UK Inquiry by: AAWA Editorial Staff (5)
  July 10, 2014, 10:38
  PRESS RELEASE - AAWA: UK Child abuse inquiry "Should include Jehovah’s Witnesses" Advocates for the Awareness of Watchtower Abuses (AAWA) welcomes the…
- Jehovah’s Witness Culture - Say What? by: Richard E. Kelly (8)
  November 16, 2014, 22:30
  Salutary, Pathogenic and Pathoplastic Aspects of the Jehovah’s Witness Culture: Say What? By Richard E. Kelly Igor Pietkiewicz, PhD I am…
- Jehovah’s Witnesses Begin 2014 Convention Series by: Editorial Staff (2)
  June 5, 2014, 19:12
  PRESS RELEASE - Jehovah’s Witnesses begin 2014 convention series, but beware of "the wolf in sheep’s clothing" June 5, 2014 On June 6th Jehovah’s…
- Jehovah’s Witnesses Can Destroy Your Family by: Liz Sorbo (43)
  January 22, 2014, 13:18
  JWSurvey.org recently published a news story titled “Canadian ‘Brainwashed’ Runaway Teenager Chooses Religion Over Mother.” (Read it here.) While that…
- JW Elder Convicted in UK Court - Coverup Revealed by: Editorial Staff (8)
  June 29, 2014, 22:44
  After the Mark Sewell conviction: Abuse survivors across the world - Step forward and speak out!!! Courageous abuse survivors should take some comfort with…
- Karpman’s Drama Triangle by: Lee Marsh (16)
  April 4, 2016, 03:41
  One of the tools I have found very helpful for people exiting a cult who want peace of mind and to find their authentic identity is Karpman’s Drama Triangle. …
- Let Me Repeat: "Undue Influence" is a Growing Plague by: Richard E. Kelly (6)
  June 17, 2015, 11:01
  After reading my first article on the prevalence and danger of "undue influence," I'm sure that many of you may have questioned my ability to edit my own…
- Life After the Cult: Struggles and Successes by: Lee Marsh (5)
  February 7, 2017, 16:24
  Victims to Victors Panel Discussion form the 2016 ICSA Conference in Dallas TX Life After the Cult: Struggles and Successes Families: Then and…
- London Workshop - Un-doing Undue Influence - Steve Hassan by: Susannah (6)
  August 28, 2014, 22:19
  While writing this article I was faced with a major challenge: How would I pack all of the important information that was covered in a two-day workshop that…
- Love & Sex: What I’ve Learned Since Leaving Watchtower by: Mickey Hudson (Danmera) (50)
  January 19, 2014, 10:50
  Growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness (JW) can warp and twist a young person’s mind about many activities, sex in particular. At least that’s how it was for…
- Manipuliert die WTG Zeugen Jehovas mental? by: Richard E. Kelly
  November 18, 2015, 03:41
  In Robert Jay Lifton's Buch "Thought Reform and Psychology of Totalism" beschreibt Lifton 8 Methoden zur Gedankenkontrolle, welche unethische Pseudo-Religionen…
- My Father's Funeral by: Editorial Staff (8)
  April 24, 2013, 07:26
  The last time I stepped into a Kingdom Hall was six years ago. At the time I had been trying to fade, but attended a funeral out of respect for a kind and…
- My Journey Out of Cognitive Dissonance by: Steph Le Gardener (11)
  October 28, 2013, 22:23
  Undoing Watchtower programming - An often painful process... “What was it that made you leave Jehovah’s Witnesses?” That is a question often asked…
- New AAWA videos highlight Watchtower's child abuse record by: Editorial Staff (26)
  May 30, 2013, 22:00
  On May 30th, AAWA proudly launched its second major campaign aimed at raising awareness of damaging Watchtower policies. This time the psychologically abusive…
- November AAWAke! Plus New Media by: AAWA Editorial Staff (3)
  October 30, 2013, 11:00
  AAWA is pleased to announce that a new edition of AAWAke! is now available on our Newsletter page as a PDF to download or for reading online. Featured…
- Our First Anniversary: What a year it has been! by: Lee Marsh (4)
  April 6, 2014, 00:01
  Over a year ago, a group of compassionate and caring people began discussing the possibility of setting up a not-for-profit organization that would shine the…
- Our Mission by: Editorial Staff
  April 24, 2013, 11:10
  AAWA.co is the official website for Advocates for Awareness of Watchtower Abuses, an international group of volunteers. Most are, or were, Jehovah's Witnesses. …
- Pedophile Warning Flyer Available in Spanish by: AAWA Editorial Staff
  March 17, 2014, 08:51
  AAWA's very popular "Who is knocking at your door?" single page handout is now available in Spanish on our Flyers and Handouts page. A quick link is listed…
- Petition: Protecting the Rights of Children by: AAWA Editorial Staff (2)
  February 23, 2014, 21:44
  Late Friday evening (February 21, 2014) AAWA launched its second grievance petition on Causes.com. This petition focuses on protecting the rights of children. …
- Preaching Door to Door by: Editorial Staff (1)
  April 24, 2013, 06:11
  It was early in 1952 and I was only eight years old when I first experienced going out in the door-to-door service. Not yet baptized, I had to go with an…
- Reason on the Facts by: Steph Le Gardener (5)
  September 24, 2013, 09:04
  Practicing what they preach has never been a virtue of the Watch Tower Society! That fact was reaffirmed in capital letters in the November 2012 issue of the…
- Rebranding Jehovah’s Witnesses - same business, same beliefs, same abuses by: AAWA Editorial Staff (14)
  August 6, 2014, 22:05
  Like something out of the classic movie,"2001, A Space Odyssey," a "monolith" like image has suddenly appeared in an apparent attempt to rebrand and create a…
- Resources: Identifying and Resisting "Undue Influence" by: Richard E. Kelly (3)
  June 23, 2015, 23:12
  This is the third and final article in a series about the clear and present danger of undue influence in the manipulative hands of charlatans, con artists,…
- Saving My Life With A Blood Transfusion by: AAWA Editorial Staff (53)
  February 14, 2014, 22:08
  Contributed by: Anna Macaluso At the tender age of ten, I began having gastrointestinal symptoms so severe that I required repeated medical attention. A…
- Sexual Abuse, the Watchtower Society and Out-of-Court Settlements by: Lee Marsh (14)
  February 25, 2017, 22:05
  Lee Marsh Many survivors of sexual abuse among Jehovah's Witnesses opt to sue the Watchtower Society and the congregation where the abuse happened. This is a…
- Sexual Recovery after the Cult by: Lee Marsh (2)
  October 19, 2016, 21:37
  Lee Marsh Oct. 19, 2016 In college I took several course on human sexuality. The very first course was on the psychology of human sexuality and the…
- Shameful Shunning in a Thousand Words by: Rick Gonzalez (129)
  November 3, 2013, 11:26
  Eating with the family... This is a picture of my dad eating. He had just made lunch for me, but he couldn’t eat it with me. I had to eat it at another…
- Shining "New Light" on Watchtower Policies by: Editorial Staff (9)
  December 5, 2013, 13:29
  Chris Stevenson tells his friends that he was born into "the world's most unnecessary religion" - Jehovah's Witnesses. And yet, before he left the religion for…
- Shunning by: Paul Grundy (68)
  May 7, 2013, 07:52
  The Watchtower instructs Jehovah’s Witnesses to disfellowship and shun members deemed “wicked.” “Disfellowship: To “remove the wicked man” or…
- SNAP Conference 25th Anniversary by: Lee Marsh (5)
  September 6, 2014, 05:00
  In August 2014 I attended the 25th Anniversary of the Survivor’s Network for those Abused by Priests (SNAP http://www.snapnetwork.org/). I wasn’t sure what…
- Special Needs for Second Generation Ex-Cult Members by: Lee Marsh (11)
  July 20, 2016, 16:57
  By Lee Marsh on July 20, 2016 One of the highlights of the International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) conference that I attended in July 2016 was Lorna…
- Starting 2014 with a Bang! by: Editorial Staff (3)
  January 7, 2014, 01:14
  Things have been very busy here at AAWA Technical Headquarters since mid-December. We've all been trying desperately to keep up with AAWA projects, our own…
- The Ethics of Evangelism by: Lee Marsh (5)
  March 9, 2016, 21:27
  When I was a Jehovah’s Witness, I thought evangelism or preaching was bad if it was not Watchtower-based. For many years as an ex-JW, I was convinced that…
- The Irony of the Holidays by: Steph Le Gardener (7)
  November 24, 2013, 17:21
  With the holiday season approaching, we know that the focus for most celebrants will be about getting together with family to share this special time of year…
- The Watchtower and Mental Illness by: Editorial Staff (26)
  May 8, 2014, 19:45
  Being a Jehovah's Witness is, as they say, "no walk in the park." Jehovah's Witnesses live a very stressful lifestyle. While some find comfort and acceptance…
- The Watchtower: No Monopoly on Mind Manipulation by: Richard E. Kelly (2)
  September 5, 2014, 21:05
  PART ONE During the Undue Influence Press Conference in London on August 22, I had the pleasure of introducing six formidable experts who spoke about the…
- The World Remembers Watchtower Victims by: AAWA Editorial Staff (4)
  July 29, 2014, 01:17
  Hope and connection brought people together around the globe on July 26, 2014. Organized through Facebook, the day became one to remember and quite unlike any…
- Undue Influence – A Significant Threat? by: Richard E. Kelly (8)
  June 10, 2015, 20:20
  I am deeply concerned about the growing menace of undue influence in our society and how quickly it takes place in the manipulative hands of terrorist…
- Unraveling Watchtower's Misinformation on Blood Transfusions by: AAWA Editorial Staff (12)
  August 26, 2015, 23:21
  Watchtower’s 135-year-old history is mired in misinformation; some of it silliness that has probably caused little harm. But misinformation related to…
- Video Exposes Watchtower's Practice of Shunning by: AAWA Editorial Staff (21)
  May 1, 2013, 22:00
  Advocates for Awareness of Watchtower Abuses (AAWA) proudly presents “Operation: e-Shunning” – its latest social media campaign aimed at informing the…
- Was this "Undue Influence"? by: Editorial Staff (8)
  May 22, 2014, 08:27
  Contributed by: Raye France It occurred to me for the first time that the Watchtower might be using undue influence when I heard, “Apostates are not…
- Watchtower & Scientology: Masters at Hypnotic Techniques by: Lee Marsh (24)
  August 18, 2015, 10:23
  Watchtower and Scientology have much in common, especially when it comes to unduly influencing new recruits and their current members. But very little…
- Watchtower and Blood: Ever Changing by: AAWA Editorial Staff (12)
  July 1, 2015, 20:24
  Those of us who have followed the subject and watched the Blood Doctrine morph over the years, realize that the Watchtower's leaders are making it up as they…
- Watchtower and Teenagers (New Video) by: Editorial Staff (27)
  July 3, 2013, 22:00
  Becoming an adult and finding your own way can be difficult enough when you are a teenager. We've all been through that and know that the transition can be…
- Watchtower Appeals the Conti Lawsuit by: Editorial Staff (3)
  April 24, 2013, 10:14
  The Watchtower filed a complete set of documents in the Court of Appeal of the State of California, First Appellate District, Division Three on March 27,…
- Watchtower Caught in a Lie by: Editorial Staff (18)
  February 26, 2015, 19:13
  Stephen Lett told a lie. There is no other way to describe it - it was simply a lie. There was not one bit of truth to it. And, as my father used to describe…
- Watchtower Policy vs Benefits of Higher Education by: Paul Grundy (1)
  November 15, 2013, 09:15
  This is the third in a series analyzing the teachings and policies of Jehovah's Witnesses in regards to advanced education. Benefits of Higher Education …
- Watchtower's Changing Stance on Education by: Paul Grundy (5)
  November 13, 2013, 10:00
  This is part two of a three-part series by Paul Grundy that analyzes the teachings and policies of Jehovah’s Witnesses in regards to advanced education for…
- Watchtower's Shunning Policy by: Richard E. Kelly (16)
  January 7, 2016, 21:24
  Eating with the family... By Rick Gonzalez This is a picture of my dad eating a meal. He had just made lunch for me, but couldn’t eat it with me. I…
- What Do Violent Extremism and Watchtower Have in Common? by: Richard E. Kelly (4)
  June 9, 2016, 02:10
  One of the most competent educators on violent extremism in the world today is Sweden’s Robert Örell. He is definitely receiving well-deserved attention for…
- What is "Undue Influence"? by: Richard E. Kelly (7)
  April 28, 2014, 00:58
  Undue influence is any act of persuasion that overcomes the free will and judgment of another person. People are unduly influenced by urgent warnings,…
- What is Spirituality? by: Lee Marsh (4)
  December 29, 2016, 23:26
  I am not talking about religion or a religious belief. Although I sincerely hope you will carefully think about any belief system you choose to get involved…
- When Trust is Broken by: Steph Le Gardener (12)
  November 18, 2013, 17:54
  This was originally posted on my WordPress blog, but since the information is relevant to the mission of AAWA, I was asked to reprint it here. Original…
- Who Is There to Fear? by: Editorial Staff (16)
  March 29, 2014, 19:58
  Contributed by: Ruben Ortiz "An apostate walks into Bethel..." Bo Juel inside Brooklyn BethelNope - that is not a joke. During his recent visit to the…
- Why We Need to Act Now to Protect Against
  Mind-Control Religions by: Richard E. Kelly (17)
  September 18, 2013, 00:58
  In most western-world countries, laws protect consumers from fraud and unethical business practices. But to date, there are no laws on the books that recognize…
- Your Biography Becomes Your Biology by: Richard E. Kelly (15)
  October 2, 2015, 08:35
  By Bonnie Zieman In a recent Facebook post, Bo Juel initiated an important conversation about how people leave the Watchtower, and whether or not they leave…
Category: Legal Cases (7)
- Brett and Naghmeh King's decision to allow blood transfusions - AJWRB Press Statement by: AAWA Editorial Staff (12)
  September 15, 2014, 19:29
  The Associated Jehovah's Witnesses for Reform on Blood (AJWRB) welcome and fully support Brett and Naghmeh King's decision to allow blood transfusions for…
- Help Pass the New York "Child Victims Act" by: AAWA Editorial Staff (3)
  April 19, 2014, 00:59
  New York State Assembly Chamber PRESS RELEASE - When you scan recent media headlines, you are likely to see more stories about Jehovah’s Witnesses…
- How the Watchtower Justifies its Crimes by: AAWA Editorial Staff (29)
  March 15, 2014, 20:17
  Contributed by: Louise Goode It was not the kind of decision that the Watchtower Society expected, as successfully justifying its crimes to members and…
- Jehovah's Witnesses "will comply with mandatory reporting of child abuse" by: AAWA Editorial Staff (21)
  August 4, 2015, 20:18
  A representative of the Jehovah’s Witnesses in Australia stated in Royal Commission hearing that the organization "will comply with mandatory reporting…
- Jehovah's Witnesses claim to have "The Truth" - Do they? by: Richard E. Kelly (24)
  September 28, 2015, 18:33
  By Richard E. Kelly Jehovah's Witnesses often refer to themselves as having "The Truth" - but they also believe that it is okay - and even appropriate at…
- JW Elder Convicted in UK Court - Coverup Revealed by: Editorial Staff (8)
  June 29, 2014, 22:44
  After the Mark Sewell conviction: Abuse survivors across the world - Step forward and speak out!!! Courageous abuse survivors should take some comfort with…
- Watchtower Appeals the Conti Lawsuit by: Editorial Staff (3)
  April 24, 2013, 10:14
  The Watchtower filed a complete set of documents in the Court of Appeal of the State of California, First Appellate District, Division Three on March 27,…
Category: Media (18)
- "Truth Be Told" - the Current Status of Gregorio Smith's Documentary by: Richard E. Kelly (16)
  December 3, 2014, 11:00
  The big buzz within the ex-Jehovah's Witness community over the past eighteen months has been news about Gregorio Smith and his documentary film "Truth Be…
- "Truth Be Told" - How Successful Could it Be? by: Richard E. Kelly (10)
  July 19, 2014, 23:54
  I am very excited about the potential for Gregorio Smith’s compelling, fast-moving documentary, "Truth Be Told." I am sure that if it is seen by enough…
- A Statement by David Clohessy of SNAP by: Editorial Staff (16)
  February 15, 2014, 10:29
  For 25 years I've been the director of SNAP, the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, the world’s oldest and largest support group for clergy…
- AAWA Announces "Watchtower Victims Memorial Day" by: AAWA Editorial Staff (5)
  June 24, 2014, 18:13
  PRESS RELEASE - Watchtower Victim’s Memorial Day July 26 – A day to remember and to end shunning As Jehovah’s Witnesses continue their convention…
- Can you be any happier than this? by: Editorial Staff (7)
  April 16, 2014, 21:23
  John Cedars and friends (including a few who are AAWA advisors and volunteers) have put together this light-hearted and joyful video based on the widely…
- International experts meet in London to discuss "UNDUE INFLUENCE" of extremist groups by: AAWA Editorial Staff (10)
  August 15, 2014, 18:43
  A group of international experts will come together in London on the weekend of August 22-24, 2014 to address some of the major concerns relating to the undue…
- Lee Marsh Urges Public to Watch CFF Conference by: Editorial Staff (3)
  November 8, 2013, 10:49
  PRESS RELEASE - CFF logo Covering Up Child Sexual Abuses in the Name of God By LEE MARSH When you can get faith leaders from many different…
- London Workshop - Un-doing Undue Influence - Steve Hassan by: Susannah (6)
  August 28, 2014, 22:19
  While writing this article I was faced with a major challenge: How would I pack all of the important information that was covered in a two-day workshop that…
- November AAWAke! Plus New Media by: AAWA Editorial Staff (3)
  October 30, 2013, 11:00
  AAWA is pleased to announce that a new edition of AAWAke! is now available on our Newsletter page as a PDF to download or for reading online. Featured…
- Petition: Protecting the Rights of Children by: AAWA Editorial Staff (2)
  February 23, 2014, 21:44
  Late Friday evening (February 21, 2014) AAWA launched its second grievance petition on Causes.com. This petition focuses on protecting the rights of children. …
- Rebranding Jehovah’s Witnesses - same business, same beliefs, same abuses by: AAWA Editorial Staff (14)
  August 6, 2014, 22:05
  Like something out of the classic movie,"2001, A Space Odyssey," a "monolith" like image has suddenly appeared in an apparent attempt to rebrand and create a…
- Shining "New Light" on Watchtower Policies by: Editorial Staff (9)
  December 5, 2013, 13:29
  Chris Stevenson tells his friends that he was born into "the world's most unnecessary religion" - Jehovah's Witnesses. And yet, before he left the religion for…
- SNAP Conference 25th Anniversary by: Lee Marsh (5)
  September 6, 2014, 05:00
  In August 2014 I attended the 25th Anniversary of the Survivor’s Network for those Abused by Priests (SNAP http://www.snapnetwork.org/). I wasn’t sure what…
- Starting 2014 with a Bang! by: Editorial Staff (3)
  January 7, 2014, 01:14
  Things have been very busy here at AAWA Technical Headquarters since mid-December. We've all been trying desperately to keep up with AAWA projects, our own…
- The Watchtower: No Monopoly on Mind Manipulation by: Richard E. Kelly (2)
  September 5, 2014, 21:05
  PART ONE During the Undue Influence Press Conference in London on August 22, I had the pleasure of introducing six formidable experts who spoke about the…
- The World Remembers Watchtower Victims by: AAWA Editorial Staff (4)
  July 29, 2014, 01:17
  Hope and connection brought people together around the globe on July 26, 2014. Organized through Facebook, the day became one to remember and quite unlike any…
- Watchtower Caught in a Lie by: Editorial Staff (18)
  February 26, 2015, 19:13
  Stephen Lett told a lie. There is no other way to describe it - it was simply a lie. There was not one bit of truth to it. And, as my father used to describe…
- Who Is There to Fear? by: Editorial Staff (16)
  March 29, 2014, 19:58
  Contributed by: Ruben Ortiz "An apostate walks into Bethel..." Bo Juel inside Brooklyn BethelNope - that is not a joke. During his recent visit to the…
Category: Mind Control (18)
- "Truth Be Told" - How Successful Could it Be? by: Richard E. Kelly (10)
  July 19, 2014, 23:54
  I am very excited about the potential for Gregorio Smith’s compelling, fast-moving documentary, "Truth Be Told." I am sure that if it is seen by enough…
- Opening Minds: A Book Review by: Richard E. Kelly (8)
  December 15, 2015, 11:50
  Richard Kelly's review of Jon Atack's new book opening minds: the secret world of manipulation, undue influence and brainwashing How would I describe Jon…
- A Resource: Therapy for ex-Jehovah's Witnesses by: Richard E. Kelly (19)
  July 4, 2015, 23:43
  I realize that it’s just a book, but I suspect readers will develop a very comfortable relationship with Bonnie Zieman during the course of their read. She…
- Cognitive Dissonance and Jehovah's Witnesses by: Richard E. Kelly (21)
  September 10, 2015, 16:38
  A REVIEW BY RICHARD E. KELLY In his breakthrough 1956 book, When Prophecy Fails, Leon Festinger hooks the reader in his very first paragraph, “A man…
- Cult Experts Hold Press Conference at London College by: Editorial Staff (5)
  August 23, 2014, 11:05
  Experts mingled with cult survivors and members of the press before launching into nearly two hours of presentations and questions at a press conference at…
- Destructive and Terrorist Cults: A New Kind of Slavery by: Richard E. Kelly (3)
  October 10, 2014, 11:50
  A Book Report by Richard E. Kelly Masoud Banisadr I have read few books that have enlightened me more than Masoud Banisadr’s Destructive and Terrorist…
- If this is love... by: Steph Le Gardener (10)
  June 15, 2014, 18:06
  How many times have you heard the scripture quoted that says we must "love our neighbor as ourselves?" It’s one of those scriptures that most people have…
- International experts meet in London to discuss "UNDUE INFLUENCE" of extremist groups by: AAWA Editorial Staff (10)
  August 15, 2014, 18:43
  A group of international experts will come together in London on the weekend of August 22-24, 2014 to address some of the major concerns relating to the undue…
- Jehovah’s Witness Culture - Say What? by: Richard E. Kelly (8)
  November 16, 2014, 22:30
  Salutary, Pathogenic and Pathoplastic Aspects of the Jehovah’s Witness Culture: Say What? By Richard E. Kelly Igor Pietkiewicz, PhD I am…
- Let Me Repeat: "Undue Influence" is a Growing Plague by: Richard E. Kelly (6)
  June 17, 2015, 11:01
  After reading my first article on the prevalence and danger of "undue influence," I'm sure that many of you may have questioned my ability to edit my own…
- London Workshop - Un-doing Undue Influence - Steve Hassan by: Susannah (6)
  August 28, 2014, 22:19
  While writing this article I was faced with a major challenge: How would I pack all of the important information that was covered in a two-day workshop that…
- Resources: Identifying and Resisting "Undue Influence" by: Richard E. Kelly (3)
  June 23, 2015, 23:12
  This is the third and final article in a series about the clear and present danger of undue influence in the manipulative hands of charlatans, con artists,…
- The Watchtower: No Monopoly on Mind Manipulation by: Richard E. Kelly (2)
  September 5, 2014, 21:05
  PART ONE During the Undue Influence Press Conference in London on August 22, I had the pleasure of introducing six formidable experts who spoke about the…
- Undue Influence – A Significant Threat? by: Richard E. Kelly (8)
  June 10, 2015, 20:20
  I am deeply concerned about the growing menace of undue influence in our society and how quickly it takes place in the manipulative hands of terrorist…
- Was this "Undue Influence"? by: Editorial Staff (8)
  May 22, 2014, 08:27
  Contributed by: Raye France It occurred to me for the first time that the Watchtower might be using undue influence when I heard, “Apostates are not…
- Watchtower & Scientology: Masters at Hypnotic Techniques by: Lee Marsh (24)
  August 18, 2015, 10:23
  Watchtower and Scientology have much in common, especially when it comes to unduly influencing new recruits and their current members. But very little…
- What is "Undue Influence"? by: Richard E. Kelly (7)
  April 28, 2014, 00:58
  Undue influence is any act of persuasion that overcomes the free will and judgment of another person. People are unduly influenced by urgent warnings,…
- Why We Need to Act Now to Protect Against
  Mind-Control Religions by: Richard E. Kelly (17)
  September 18, 2013, 00:58
  In most western-world countries, laws protect consumers from fraud and unethical business practices. But to date, there are no laws on the books that recognize…
Category: Objectives (4)
- AAWA Wishes You a Happy 2014 by: Lee Marsh (13)
  January 3, 2014, 19:19
  We were barely into the new year of 2013 when a small group of people started to talk about a new way of dealing with the Watchtower Society. Who would…
- Can AAWA Make It Happen? by: Richard E. Kelly (6)
  June 29, 2013, 12:39
  When the formation of AAWA was first announced to the public less than three months ago, I thought it was a worthy goal to try to rally ex-Jehovah's Witnesses…
- Our Mission by: Editorial Staff
  April 24, 2013, 11:10
  AAWA.co is the official website for Advocates for Awareness of Watchtower Abuses, an international group of volunteers. Most are, or were, Jehovah's Witnesses. …
- Video Exposes Watchtower's Practice of Shunning by: AAWA Editorial Staff (21)
  May 1, 2013, 22:00
  Advocates for Awareness of Watchtower Abuses (AAWA) proudly presents “Operation: e-Shunning” – its latest social media campaign aimed at informing the…
Category: Open House (52)
Welcome to our Open House. I will add more about this later
- Category: Personal Stories (3)
  Please tell us your story. Consider this as your personal diary but with comments from the rest of us. By keeping your story in your personal diary you will…
  - Ex-JWs: Stop Respecting the Watchtower’s Wishes by: AAWA Editorial Staff (45)
    March 1, 2014, 00:01
    Contributed by: Jeni Lundblom–Valdez In a few weeks, it will be twelve years since I cut ties with the Watchtower. After committing the defiant act of…
  - Saving My Life With A Blood Transfusion by: AAWA Editorial Staff (53)
    February 14, 2014, 22:08
    Contributed by: Anna Macaluso At the tender age of ten, I began having gastrointestinal symptoms so severe that I required repeated medical attention. A…
  - The World Remembers Watchtower Victims by: AAWA Editorial Staff (4)
    July 29, 2014, 01:17
    Hope and connection brought people together around the globe on July 26, 2014. Organized through Facebook, the day became one to remember and quite unlike any…
- Category: Special Topics (42)
  edited later but we will deal with various topics here
  - Category: Blood (7)
    to be added
    - Blood Deaths: Watchtower Claims It's a Myth by: Editorial Staff (16)
      January 29, 2014, 00:51
      The Watchtower Society wants you to believe that reports of Jehovah's Witnesses needlessly dying each year because they refuse blood transfusions are mythical…
    - Blood Transfusions - Watchtower "Truth" vs. Fact by: AAWA Editorial Staff (7)
      July 15, 2014, 08:34
      According to Lee Elder, Director of AJWRB (Associated Jehovah's Witness for Reform on Blood), most Jehovah’s Witnesses believe "...blood transfusions are bad…
    - How the Watchtower Uses Undue Influence to Enforce Its Blood Policy by: Editorial Staff (43)
      April 13, 2014, 04:41
      Contributed by: Marc Latham Cora and I have never felt better about a visit to the hospital than we did on Friday, March 28, 2014. It wasn't a routine…
    - Saving My Life With A Blood Transfusion by: AAWA Editorial Staff (53)
      February 14, 2014, 22:08
      Contributed by: Anna Macaluso At the tender age of ten, I began having gastrointestinal symptoms so severe that I required repeated medical attention. A…
    - Undue Influence and Watchtower’s Blood Transfusion Policy by: Lee Marsh (3)
      October 9, 2016, 15:54
      By Malcomb Landis with help from Lee Elder (first posted on Open Minds Foundation) People are far more influenced by situations and social pressure than…
    - Unraveling Watchtower's Misinformation on Blood Transfusions by: AAWA Editorial Staff (12)
      August 26, 2015, 23:21
      Watchtower’s 135-year-old history is mired in misinformation; some of it silliness that has probably caused little harm. But misinformation related to…
    - Watchtower and Blood: Ever Changing by: AAWA Editorial Staff (12)
      July 1, 2015, 20:24
      Those of us who have followed the subject and watched the Blood Doctrine morph over the years, realize that the Watchtower's leaders are making it up as they…
  - Category: Child Physical Abuse (5)
    The issue of physical abuse of children cannot be ignored. Often children were carted to the back of the Hall during a meeting or taken to a room called the…
    - AAWA Announces "Watchtower Victims Memorial Day" by: AAWA Editorial Staff (5)
      June 24, 2014, 18:13
      PRESS RELEASE - Watchtower Victim’s Memorial Day July 26 – A day to remember and to end shunning As Jehovah’s Witnesses continue their convention…
    - AAWA Cooperates with UK, Eire Pedophile Database by: Editorial Staff (1)
      June 2, 2014, 22:57
      PRESS RELEASE - AAWA cooperates with UK and Eire Pedophile Database to expose Jehovah’s Witnesses failing child protection policies May 31, 2014 On May…
    - AAWA Welcomes Charity Commission Investigation by: Editorial Staff
      May 30, 2014, 06:54
      PRESS RELEASE - AAWA welcomes Charity Commission investigation of UK congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses May 30, 2014 Advocates for Awareness of…
    - AAWA Welcomes UK Charity Commission Inquiries by: Editorial Staff (2)
      June 18, 2014, 19:14
      PRESS RELEASE - AAWA welcomes Charity Commission’s opening of “statutory inquiries” into Jehovah’s Witnesses in the UK June 17, 2014 Advocates…
    - JW Elder Convicted in UK Court - Coverup Revealed by: Editorial Staff (8)
      June 29, 2014, 22:44
      After the Mark Sewell conviction: Abuse survivors across the world - Step forward and speak out!!! Courageous abuse survivors should take some comfort with…
  - Category: Education (5)
    What we gave up in exchange for door-knocking
    - I’m Proud I Went to College! by: Editorial Staff (19)
      September 30, 2013, 03:20
      Contributed to AAWA by Brock Talon I am very proud I went to college! And, in spite of what most Jehovah’s Witnesses might think, I’m sure I did the right…
    - Jehovah's Witnesses and Higher Education by: Paul Grundy (5)
      November 11, 2013, 10:06
      Jehovah’s Witnesses are advised against pursuing a higher education, with the Watchtower regularly providing warnings that attending university is an…
    - Reason on the Facts by: Steph Le Gardener (5)
      September 24, 2013, 09:04
      Practicing what they preach has never been a virtue of the Watch Tower Society! That fact was reaffirmed in capital letters in the November 2012 issue of the…
    - Watchtower Policy vs Benefits of Higher Education by: Paul Grundy (1)
      November 15, 2013, 09:15
      This is the third in a series analyzing the teachings and policies of Jehovah's Witnesses in regards to advanced education. Benefits of Higher Education …
    - Watchtower's Changing Stance on Education by: Paul Grundy (5)
      November 13, 2013, 10:00
      This is part two of a three-part series by Paul Grundy that analyzes the teachings and policies of Jehovah’s Witnesses in regards to advanced education for…
  - Category: Psychological and Emotional Child Abuse (5)
    to be added
    - "Truth Be Told" - the Current Status of Gregorio Smith's Documentary by: Richard E. Kelly (16)
      December 3, 2014, 11:00
      The big buzz within the ex-Jehovah's Witness community over the past eighteen months has been news about Gregorio Smith and his documentary film "Truth Be…
    - Jehovah’s Witness Culture - Say What? by: Richard E. Kelly (8)
      November 16, 2014, 22:30
      Salutary, Pathogenic and Pathoplastic Aspects of the Jehovah’s Witness Culture: Say What? By Richard E. Kelly Igor Pietkiewicz, PhD I am…
    - TRUTH BE TOLD - Press Release by: AAWA Editorial Staff (2)
      January 5, 2015, 17:22
      The following press release is being distributed to news agencies and other media groups on January 5, 2015. SMITHKRAFT PRODUCTIONS Contact: Greg…
    - Watchtower and Teenagers (New Video) by: Editorial Staff (27)
      July 3, 2013, 22:00
      Becoming an adult and finding your own way can be difficult enough when you are a teenager. We've all been through that and know that the transition can be…
    - Your Biography Becomes Your Biology by: Richard E. Kelly (15)
      October 2, 2015, 08:35
      By Bonnie Zieman In a recent Facebook post, Bo Juel initiated an important conversation about how people leave the Watchtower, and whether or not they leave…
  - Category: Sexual Child Abuse (14)
    to be added
    - A Statement by David Clohessy of SNAP by: Editorial Staff (16)
      February 15, 2014, 10:29
      For 25 years I've been the director of SNAP, the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, the world’s oldest and largest support group for clergy…
    - Child Abuse and The Watchtower by: Paul Grundy (9)
      June 27, 2013, 20:09
      Jehovah’s Witnesses have received global media attention for their child protection policies, which put children at risk and serve to protect pedophiles. It…
    - Children in Harm's Way: Watchtower & Sexual Abuse by: Steph Le Gardener (16)
      October 9, 2013, 22:00
      Children are a priceless gift to be nurtured and protected by loving, caring adults. Unfortunately, one of our most vulnerable populations is suffering every…
    - Help Pass the New York "Child Victims Act" by: AAWA Editorial Staff (3)
      April 19, 2014, 00:59
      New York State Assembly Chamber PRESS RELEASE - When you scan recent media headlines, you are likely to see more stories about Jehovah’s Witnesses…
    - How the Watchtower Justifies its Crimes by: AAWA Editorial Staff (29)
      March 15, 2014, 20:17
      Contributed by: Louise Goode It was not the kind of decision that the Watchtower Society expected, as successfully justifying its crimes to members and…
    - Jehovah's Witnesses "will comply with mandatory reporting of child abuse" by: AAWA Editorial Staff (21)
      August 4, 2015, 20:18
      A representative of the Jehovah’s Witnesses in Australia stated in Royal Commission hearing that the organization "will comply with mandatory reporting…
    - Jehovah's Witnesses Should be Included in UK Inquiry by: AAWA Editorial Staff (5)
      July 10, 2014, 10:38
      PRESS RELEASE - AAWA: UK Child abuse inquiry "Should include Jehovah’s Witnesses" Advocates for the Awareness of Watchtower Abuses (AAWA) welcomes the…
    - Jehovah’s Witnesses Begin 2014 Convention Series by: Editorial Staff (2)
      June 5, 2014, 19:12
      PRESS RELEASE - Jehovah’s Witnesses begin 2014 convention series, but beware of "the wolf in sheep’s clothing" June 5, 2014 On June 6th Jehovah’s…
    - Lee Marsh Urges Public to Watch CFF Conference by: Editorial Staff (3)
      November 8, 2013, 10:49
      PRESS RELEASE - CFF logo Covering Up Child Sexual Abuses in the Name of God By LEE MARSH When you can get faith leaders from many different…
    - Pedophile Warning Flyer Available in Spanish by: AAWA Editorial Staff
      March 17, 2014, 08:51
      AAWA's very popular "Who is knocking at your door?" single page handout is now available in Spanish on our Flyers and Handouts page. A quick link is listed…
    - Petition: Protecting the Rights of Children by: AAWA Editorial Staff (2)
      February 23, 2014, 21:44
      Late Friday evening (February 21, 2014) AAWA launched its second grievance petition on Causes.com. This petition focuses on protecting the rights of children. …
    - Reason on the Facts by: Steph Le Gardener (5)
      September 24, 2013, 09:04
      Practicing what they preach has never been a virtue of the Watch Tower Society! That fact was reaffirmed in capital letters in the November 2012 issue of the…
    - SNAP Conference 25th Anniversary by: Lee Marsh (5)
      September 6, 2014, 05:00
      In August 2014 I attended the 25th Anniversary of the Survivor’s Network for those Abused by Priests (SNAP http://www.snapnetwork.org/). I wasn’t sure what…
    - Watchtower Caught in a Lie by: Editorial Staff (18)
      February 26, 2015, 19:13
      Stephen Lett told a lie. There is no other way to describe it - it was simply a lie. There was not one bit of truth to it. And, as my father used to describe…
  - Category: Shunning (7)
    Shunning, Marking, Not reaching out. It doesn’t matter what they call it. It hurts
    - A Resource: Therapy for ex-Jehovah's Witnesses by: Richard E. Kelly (19)
      July 4, 2015, 23:43
      I realize that it’s just a book, but I suspect readers will develop a very comfortable relationship with Bonnie Zieman during the course of their read. She…
    - Ex-JWs: Stop Respecting the Watchtower’s Wishes by: AAWA Editorial Staff (45)
      March 1, 2014, 00:01
      Contributed by: Jeni Lundblom–Valdez In a few weeks, it will be twelve years since I cut ties with the Watchtower. After committing the defiant act of…
    - If this is love... by: Steph Le Gardener (10)
      June 15, 2014, 18:06
      How many times have you heard the scripture quoted that says we must "love our neighbor as ourselves?" It’s one of those scriptures that most people have…
    - Jehovah’s Witnesses Begin 2014 Convention Series by: Editorial Staff (2)
      June 5, 2014, 19:12
      PRESS RELEASE - Jehovah’s Witnesses begin 2014 convention series, but beware of "the wolf in sheep’s clothing" June 5, 2014 On June 6th Jehovah’s…
    - Reason on the Facts by: Steph Le Gardener (5)
      September 24, 2013, 09:04
      Practicing what they preach has never been a virtue of the Watch Tower Society! That fact was reaffirmed in capital letters in the November 2012 issue of the…
    - Shameful Shunning in a Thousand Words by: Rick Gonzalez (129)
      November 3, 2013, 11:26
      Eating with the family... This is a picture of my dad eating. He had just made lunch for me, but he couldn’t eat it with me. I had to eat it at another…
    - Was this "Undue Influence"? by: Editorial Staff (8)
      May 22, 2014, 08:27
      Contributed by: Raye France It occurred to me for the first time that the Watchtower might be using undue influence when I heard, “Apostates are not…
  - Category: Spousal Abuse (2)
    to be added
    - Debunking Watchtower Misinformation For and About Women by: AAWA Editorial Staff (15)
      March 7, 2014, 00:01
      Contributed by: Sue Hall I was recently reminded of the damaging effect of Watchtower misinformation about women, and how and why many Jehovah’s Witness…
    - Exposing the Watchtower's Flawed Domestic Violence Policy by: Editorial Staff (29)
      December 13, 2013, 20:17
      You may find it difficult to imagine that in these modern times that anyone could believe that a wife, "a lowly woman," should be subservient to an abusive…
- Category: Who am I? Recovery (10)
  recovery issues
  - Can you be any happier than this? by: Editorial Staff (7)
    April 16, 2014, 21:23
    John Cedars and friends (including a few who are AAWA advisors and volunteers) have put together this light-hearted and joyful video based on the widely…
  - Déclaration de liberté by: Lee Marsh (1)
    January 6, 2015, 15:20
    Il y a quelques années, je devais faire le bilan de ce que je l'avais laissé et de ce que j'avais maintenant. J'avais peur de quitter les Témoins, et je…
  - My Declaration of Freedom by: Lee Marsh (28)
    January 4, 2016, 21:40
    A few years ago I needed to take stock of what I had left behind and what I now had. I was scared to leave the Witnesses but I knew I couldn't stay. I spent…
  - Sexual Recovery after the Cult by: Lee Marsh (2)
    October 19, 2016, 21:37
    Lee Marsh Oct. 19, 2016 In college I took several course on human sexuality. The very first course was on the psychology of human sexuality and the…
  - What is Spirituality? by: Lee Marsh (4)
    December 29, 2016, 23:26
    I am not talking about religion or a religious belief. Although I sincerely hope you will carefully think about any belief system you choose to get involved…
  - Category: Anxiety, Fears and Phobias (5)
    Over-coming
    - Jehovah’s Witness Culture - Say What? by: Richard E. Kelly (8)
      November 16, 2014, 22:30
      Salutary, Pathogenic and Pathoplastic Aspects of the Jehovah’s Witness Culture: Say What? By Richard E. Kelly Igor Pietkiewicz, PhD I am…
    - The Irony of the Holidays by: Steph Le Gardener (7)
      November 24, 2013, 17:21
      With the holiday season approaching, we know that the focus for most celebrants will be about getting together with family to share this special time of year…
    - The Watchtower and Mental Illness by: Editorial Staff (26)
      May 8, 2014, 19:45
      Being a Jehovah's Witness is, as they say, "no walk in the park." Jehovah's Witnesses live a very stressful lifestyle. While some find comfort and acceptance…
    - What is "Undue Influence"? by: Richard E. Kelly (7)
      April 28, 2014, 00:58
      Undue influence is any act of persuasion that overcomes the free will and judgment of another person. People are unduly influenced by urgent warnings,…
    - Who Is There to Fear? by: Editorial Staff (16)
      March 29, 2014, 19:58
      Contributed by: Ruben Ortiz "An apostate walks into Bethel..." Bo Juel inside Brooklyn BethelNope - that is not a joke. During his recent visit to the…
  - Category: Starting Over (0)
    We have to start somewhere
Category: Personal Stories (8)
- A Letter of Gratitude to AAWA from a Jehovah's Witness by: Lee Marsh (33)
  September 29, 2015, 08:00
  By Lee Marsh We often think that nothing we do has any real effect on Jehovah's Witnesses. However, just a couple of days ago, I received an email thanking…
- Destructive and Terrorist Cults: A New Kind of Slavery by: Richard E. Kelly (3)
  October 10, 2014, 11:50
  A Book Report by Richard E. Kelly Masoud Banisadr I have read few books that have enlightened me more than Masoud Banisadr’s Destructive and Terrorist…
- Jehovah’s Witnesses Can Destroy Your Family by: Liz Sorbo (43)
  January 22, 2014, 13:18
  JWSurvey.org recently published a news story titled “Canadian ‘Brainwashed’ Runaway Teenager Chooses Religion Over Mother.” (Read it here.) While that…
- My Father's Funeral by: Editorial Staff (8)
  April 24, 2013, 07:26
  The last time I stepped into a Kingdom Hall was six years ago. At the time I had been trying to fade, but attended a funeral out of respect for a kind and…
- Preaching Door to Door by: Editorial Staff (1)
  April 24, 2013, 06:11
  It was early in 1952 and I was only eight years old when I first experienced going out in the door-to-door service. Not yet baptized, I had to go with an…
- The World Remembers Watchtower Victims by: AAWA Editorial Staff (4)
  July 29, 2014, 01:17
  Hope and connection brought people together around the globe on July 26, 2014. Organized through Facebook, the day became one to remember and quite unlike any…
- Undue Influence and Watchtower’s Blood Transfusion Policy by: Lee Marsh (3)
  October 9, 2016, 15:54
  By Malcomb Landis with help from Lee Elder (first posted on Open Minds Foundation) People are far more influenced by situations and social pressure than…
- Was this "Undue Influence"? by: Editorial Staff (8)
  May 22, 2014, 08:27
  Contributed by: Raye France It occurred to me for the first time that the Watchtower might be using undue influence when I heard, “Apostates are not…
Category: Press Releases (12)
- AAWA Announces "Watchtower Victims Memorial Day" by: AAWA Editorial Staff (5)
  June 24, 2014, 18:13
  PRESS RELEASE - Watchtower Victim’s Memorial Day July 26 – A day to remember and to end shunning As Jehovah’s Witnesses continue their convention…
- AAWA Cooperates with UK, Eire Pedophile Database by: Editorial Staff (1)
  June 2, 2014, 22:57
  PRESS RELEASE - AAWA cooperates with UK and Eire Pedophile Database to expose Jehovah’s Witnesses failing child protection policies May 31, 2014 On May…
- AAWA Welcomes Charity Commission Investigation by: Editorial Staff
  May 30, 2014, 06:54
  PRESS RELEASE - AAWA welcomes Charity Commission investigation of UK congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses May 30, 2014 Advocates for Awareness of…
- AAWA Welcomes UK Charity Commission Inquiries by: Editorial Staff (2)
  June 18, 2014, 19:14
  PRESS RELEASE - AAWA welcomes Charity Commission’s opening of “statutory inquiries” into Jehovah’s Witnesses in the UK June 17, 2014 Advocates…
- Brett and Naghmeh King's decision to allow blood transfusions - AJWRB Press Statement by: AAWA Editorial Staff (12)
  September 15, 2014, 19:29
  The Associated Jehovah's Witnesses for Reform on Blood (AJWRB) welcome and fully support Brett and Naghmeh King's decision to allow blood transfusions for…
- Cult Experts Hold Press Conference at London College by: Editorial Staff (5)
  August 23, 2014, 11:05
  Experts mingled with cult survivors and members of the press before launching into nearly two hours of presentations and questions at a press conference at…
- Help Pass the New York "Child Victims Act" by: AAWA Editorial Staff (3)
  April 19, 2014, 00:59
  New York State Assembly Chamber PRESS RELEASE - When you scan recent media headlines, you are likely to see more stories about Jehovah’s Witnesses…
- International experts meet in London to discuss "UNDUE INFLUENCE" of extremist groups by: AAWA Editorial Staff (10)
  August 15, 2014, 18:43
  A group of international experts will come together in London on the weekend of August 22-24, 2014 to address some of the major concerns relating to the undue…
- Jehovah's Witnesses Should be Included in UK Inquiry by: AAWA Editorial Staff (5)
  July 10, 2014, 10:38
  PRESS RELEASE - AAWA: UK Child abuse inquiry "Should include Jehovah’s Witnesses" Advocates for the Awareness of Watchtower Abuses (AAWA) welcomes the…
- Jehovah’s Witnesses Begin 2014 Convention Series by: Editorial Staff (2)
  June 5, 2014, 19:12
  PRESS RELEASE - Jehovah’s Witnesses begin 2014 convention series, but beware of "the wolf in sheep’s clothing" June 5, 2014 On June 6th Jehovah’s…
- Lee Marsh Urges Public to Watch CFF Conference by: Editorial Staff (3)
  November 8, 2013, 10:49
  PRESS RELEASE - CFF logo Covering Up Child Sexual Abuses in the Name of God By LEE MARSH When you can get faith leaders from many different…
- TRUTH BE TOLD - Press Release by: AAWA Editorial Staff (2)
  January 5, 2015, 17:22
  The following press release is being distributed to news agencies and other media groups on January 5, 2015. SMITHKRAFT PRODUCTIONS Contact: Greg…
Category: Publications (5)
- AAWA Autumn Update by: Editorial Staff
  September 11, 2013, 19:37
  While activity on this website has been a little slow over the past couple of months, all of us at AAWA have been very busy working in the background. As the…
- AAWAke! is here! Read it now! by: Steph Le Gardener (8)
  July 25, 2013, 02:58
  AAWAke! NewsletterGreetings from AAWA’s Newsletter Team! We are pleased to announce that our latest newsletter is now available along with a few other…
- November AAWAke! Plus New Media by: AAWA Editorial Staff (3)
  October 30, 2013, 11:00
  AAWA is pleased to announce that a new edition of AAWAke! is now available on our Newsletter page as a PDF to download or for reading online. Featured…
- Pedophile Warning Flyer Available in Spanish by: AAWA Editorial Staff
  March 17, 2014, 08:51
  AAWA's very popular "Who is knocking at your door?" single page handout is now available in Spanish on our Flyers and Handouts page. A quick link is listed…
- Starting 2014 with a Bang! by: Editorial Staff (3)
  January 7, 2014, 01:14
  Things have been very busy here at AAWA Technical Headquarters since mid-December. We've all been trying desperately to keep up with AAWA projects, our own…
Category: Spanish Translations (2)
- Ostracismo - una imagen vale más que mil palabras by: Rick Gonzalez (4)
  July 20, 2014, 01:32
  Comer con la familia ... Esta es una foto de mi papá comiendo. Él acababa de hacer el almuerzo para mí, pero no podía comer junto conmigo. Tuve que…
- Shameful Shunning in a Thousand Words by: Rick Gonzalez (129)
  November 3, 2013, 11:26
  Eating with the family... This is a picture of my dad eating. He had just made lunch for me, but he couldn’t eat it with me. I had to eat it at another…
Category: Support Forum (2)
- AAWA Announces New "Support Forum" by: Lee Marsh (11)
  July 1, 2013, 08:38
  As of Monday July 1, 2013 AAWA is introducing a new online support forum. The Forum will focus on recovery issues of Jehovah's Witnesses who have already left…
- Our First Anniversary: What a year it has been! by: Lee Marsh (4)
  April 6, 2014, 00:01
  Over a year ago, a group of compassionate and caring people began discussing the possibility of setting up a not-for-profit organization that would shine the…
Category: Undue Influence (1)
- The Ethics of Evangelism by: Lee Marsh (5)
  March 9, 2016, 21:27
  When I was a Jehovah’s Witness, I thought evangelism or preaching was bad if it was not Watchtower-based. For many years as an ex-JW, I was convinced that…
Category: Watchtower Doctrines (6)
- Blood Deaths: Watchtower Claims It's a Myth by: Editorial Staff (16)
  January 29, 2014, 00:51
  The Watchtower Society wants you to believe that reports of Jehovah's Witnesses needlessly dying each year because they refuse blood transfusions are mythical…
- Changing the Watchtower: A Hopeless Task? by: Steph Le Gardener (37)
  January 27, 2014, 18:40
  When reading various ex-Jehovah’s Witness forums you will often see comments like “I want to see the Tower come crumbling down” - referring to the…
- Jehovah's Witnesses claim to have "The Truth" - Do they? by: Richard E. Kelly (24)
  September 28, 2015, 18:33
  By Richard E. Kelly Jehovah's Witnesses often refer to themselves as having "The Truth" - but they also believe that it is okay - and even appropriate at…
- Shunning by: Paul Grundy (68)
  May 7, 2013, 07:52
  The Watchtower instructs Jehovah’s Witnesses to disfellowship and shun members deemed “wicked.” “Disfellowship: To “remove the wicked man” or…
- Unraveling Watchtower's Misinformation on Blood Transfusions by: AAWA Editorial Staff (12)
  August 26, 2015, 23:21
  Watchtower’s 135-year-old history is mired in misinformation; some of it silliness that has probably caused little harm. But misinformation related to…
- Watchtower and Blood: Ever Changing by: AAWA Editorial Staff (12)
  July 1, 2015, 20:24
  Those of us who have followed the subject and watched the Blood Doctrine morph over the years, realize that the Watchtower's leaders are making it up as they…
Category: Women's Rights (2)
- Debunking Watchtower Misinformation For and About Women by: AAWA Editorial Staff (15)
  March 7, 2014, 00:01
  Contributed by: Sue Hall I was recently reminded of the damaging effect of Watchtower misinformation about women, and how and why many Jehovah’s Witness…
- Love & Sex: What I’ve Learned Since Leaving Watchtower by: Mickey Hudson (Danmera) (50)
  January 19, 2014, 10:50
  Growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness (JW) can warp and twist a young person’s mind about many activities, sex in particular. At least that’s how it was for…

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