More hogwash. The 12-step program doesn't even require that you believe in God; it DOES require that you recognize "a higher power." You can define that as anything you like -- including some secret well within yourself.
And that is the problem with casual observers of such a program thinking they are in a position to condemn it as "proselytizing" or a "religion." Because there are spiritual aspects to its philosophy, the theophobes run away screaming.
As for it being "preached" as the sole method of sobriety, that's poppycock. I don't know anyone in AA who "preaches" at all. They are quick to share their experiences, but are slow to judge others. Unlike certain posters on this thread ...
But didn't it require a belief in God before the ACLU got involved?