FREECOG

FREECOG or Free the Children of God, originally named The Parents' Committee to Free Our Children from the Children of God, was an anti-cult group founded in 1971. It was the first organized anti-cult group, formed as a response to the total commitment and alleged mind control techniques used by the Children of God. Founders included Ian Haworth. Ted Patrick, one of the pioneers of so called deprogramming, coordinated the group.

By the mid 1970s, publicity about negative practices of cults had led to a wider anti-cult movement in North America, Western Europe, and elsewhere. In the early 1980s most of the parent groups merged into what became known as the Cult Awareness Network.

Press coverage

• New York Times: Parents Join to Combat Radical Youth Sect — 1972-02-22
• Edwardsville Intelligencer: 'Jesus Communes' Opposed by Parents — 1973-06-16
• Washington Post: Children of God Suit Ended — 1973-08-03

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