1976: The Year That Changed Recovery Advocacy Forever

Join Mobilize Recovery for our first Virtual Workshop of 2026! We’re celebrating the 50th Anniversary of two monumental events: Operation Understanding and Freedom Fest.

In 1976, these events shattered the stigma surrounding alcoholism. Operation Understanding saw 50 high-profile figures—including Buzz Aldrin and Dick Van Dyke—go public with their recovery for the first time. Later that year, Freedom Fest '76 drew tens of thousands to Minnesota for the largest recovery advocacy gathering in U.S. history.

Join the Discussion

Filmmaker Greg Williams (The Anonymous People) and Jeremiah Gardner (Hazelden Betty Ford) will explore the historic magnitude of 1976, the evolution and setbacks of the public recovery movement, and inform how the grassroots community can shape the future.

RSVP on this page to reserve your spot and receive the workshop link.

Event Details

Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM (Eastern Time)
Zoom (RSVP to receive link)
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