On October 23, 1996 the Cult Awareness Network, Inc.'s servicemark and trademark rights, including rights to the use of the CAN stylized logo, were sold to a Scientology-related law firm as part of a $20,000.00 purchase of CAN assets in the federal bankruptcy court. The purchase became final on October 30, 1996.

WARNING!

Do *not* contact CAN or send financial or other contributions to this organization -- you will be contacting, from 30 Oct 1996, an arm of the Cult of Scientology.

This page is a mirror of CAN's original home page.

CAN AT A GLANCE


WHAT IS CAN?

The Cult Awareness Network is a national non-profit organization founded to educate the public about the harmful effects of mind control as used by destructive cults. CAN confines its concerns to unethical or illegal practices, including coercive persuasion or mind control, and does not judge doctrine or beliefs. Funding comes exclusively from voluntary contributions.

WHO ARE WE?

We are former cult members and the families and friends of past and present cult members. Some of us are mental health professionals, lawyers, physicians, legislators, clergy, law enforcement officers and educators. We represent and care about an estimated five million people who have been seriously affected by the more than 2500 destructive cults.

WHAT DO WE DO?

We are dedicated to bringing to public awareness the harmful effects of destructive cults and providing information and support for families, as well as assistance to former cult members. CAN recognizes the need for voluntary exit counseling/deprogramming as a means to restore critical thinking, and supports all legal efforts to protect individuals' freedom of choice.

WHERE ARE WE?

The Cult Awareness Network is a coalition of volunteer affiliate groups throughout the United States. FOCUS is a support group for former cult members. Communication is maintained with similar organizations throughout the world, including Denmark, England, France, Germany, Spain, Israel, Australia, and Canada.

WHAT IS A DESTRUCTIVE CULT?

A destructive cult is a closed system whose followers have been unethically and deceptively recruited through the use of manipulative techniques of thought reform or mind control. The system is imposed without the informed consent of the recruit and is designed to alter personality and behavior.

WHO ARE THEY?

Those groups that have engaged in some illegal or unethical practices, including: child abuse, neglect, and death; illegal immigration; drug dealing; fraud and deceit in their recruiting, business, financial, and fundraising activities; theft; harassment of critics, families, and former followers with threats, lawsuits, and foul play; stockpiling or smuggling of weapons and ammunition; beatings; sexual abuse and prostitution; kidnapping; murder; attempted murder; and psychological and emotional damage.

ANYONE - even you - can be deceived!

You can reach CAN at:

  • CAN National Office
  • 2421 W. Pratt Blvd., Suite 1173
  • Chicago, IL 60645.
  • 312/267-7777
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