Adoption Stories: K.K.
Conversations about adoption are often missing the voices of people who have lived it. Countless individuals have firsthand experience with the process, and their stories deserve to be heard. In our new series, “Adoption Stories,” we’re giving adoptees, birth parents, adoptive parents, and their families a platform to share their journeys in their own words. This month, we welcome K.K.
If you are interested in sharing your experiences with adoption, please complete this survey.
What are your experiences with adoption?
I adopted a child, and I am the family member of an adoptee.
What do you think are the most common myths or misconceptions about adoption?
That the children who were adopted are soooo lucky to get us. (We are the lucky ones!)
How do you see adoption portrayed in public discourse? Do you feel this is accurate?
Children who are adopted are often seen as different, sometimes even at fault, especially if they have difficulties.
Are there specific reforms or changes you think should be made in adoption practices or laws?
Siblings should be kept together whenever possible. Services and support should be provided to children adopted from care throughout their entire childhood and into college.
In your opinion, what makes an adoption process ethical or unethical?
The needs of the children must trump all the adults! It is unethical to allow children to stay in foster care for years. They deserve permanence. Adoptive families must be respectful of other stories – we all do our best for our unique families. Adoption is ethical only when adoptive families are scrutinized and background checked to make sure they will not add more trauma to a child’s life.
Any recommended resources for people who want to better understand adoption?
The Connected Child by Karen Purvis.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your perspective on adoption?
Adoption is a beautiful way for a family to bring a new member aboard. We don’t do “gotcha” days – I liken the adoption anniversary to the anniversary of my marriage when I was welcomed into our family.
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