Spiritual Abuse Forum for Education (SAFE)
SAFE Meetups
The Spiritual Abuse Forum for Education (SAFE) is a regular meetup in Portland, Oregon for those who have left or are considering leaving high-demand religious groups.
When you are pressured to give more than you want, to believe without questioning, to obey without thinking, and to conform without personal conviction and against your conscience, you are being abused. SAFE meetups are for those who are in such groups, have left them, or simply desire more understanding. You are not alone!
Interview between Ken Garrett and Ashlen Hilliard on the Spiritual Abuse Forum for Education (SAFE) Meetups in Portland, Oregon.
SAFE Meetups Group Norms: What to Expect?
SAFE is a free meetup that provides education, support, and community for survivors of spiritual abuse. We welcome all attendees without any prior screening. Our doors are open to anyone who wishes to join and connect with others who have gone through similar experiences.
It's important to note that SAFE is not an emergency service or a support group. It's also not a substitute for professional counseling from qualified mental health professionals. Rather, it's a group for discussion, support, and education led by experienced educators, not therapists.
At SAFE meetups, you are not required to share your name, stay for the entire meetup, or commit to future meetups. You are also not expected to discuss any abuse you may have experienced. If you want to share your experience, please keep in mind that our goal is to offer support, not give direct advice.
We welcome attendees from diverse backgrounds on different paths of their healing journey. Let's respect each other to ensure a safe environment for everyone.
We aim to wrap up in an hour and a half to respect your time and the venue's reservation time limit. After the meetup, feel free to continue chatting in one of the many cool locations in the Kennedy School.