While AA and programs are not exactly alike,
wow, that's QUITE an understatment. I am sorry. I find this minimization of torment and the shocking ignorance /stupidity behind it offensive.
Maybe "all the AAers" don't want to talk about whether or not they are cult members for the same reason you don't want to talk about whether or not you are a druggie: Because the suggestion is rude, presumptuous and just idiotic.

I can help you feel better about yourself
lol.
If a Program Parent who believes all anti-straight protesters are drug addicts is brainwashed, what are you for believing everyone who believes AA’s a benign, helpful group is a brainwashed AA member? An idiot? According to your rationale, every known cultic scholar is a brainwashed AA member. But, OK. The conspiracy goes pretty deep, right?
Wouldn't I actually have to be an alcoholic and feel benefited by AA to be part of its cult? Does it matter that I am not and I don’t? Or do you feel that I am lying about that as you “know” my personal history? Why are you comfortable behaving in a fashion that were a PP to imitate you’d feel proved their brainwashing or stupidity?
Never mind. It’s my bad for feeling offended by people who imply programs are consensual, 1 hour a week, group meetings where groups are advised not to instruct or yell at members, but are ultimately are free to do whatever they want as there is no authority dominating them. If only your beleif was correct. Then my arthritis wouldn't be so bad after being slaved so hard . Oh, le internet. le sigh.