In the evolving landscape of adoption, birth parents, expectant parents and parents exploring adoption have a significant say in choosing the family for their child. Gone are the days of minimal communication post-adoption. Today, birth parents, expectant parents and parents exploring adoption actively participate in the matching process, seeking not just love and stability but also representation for their child. However, there remains a notable gap in representation, particularly for black families in the adoption world. It's no secret that people of color, especially black families, are highly sought out by families exploring adoption. Yet, the pool of waiting families across the U.S., including regions like Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., often lacks diversity. This underrepresentation poses a challenge in meeting the preferences of birth parents, and expectant parents who understandably desire to see their child reflected in their adoptive family.
As a pregnancy counselor, I've witnessed firsthand the importance of representation for birth parents, expectant parents, and parents exploring adoption. Recently, I worked with an African American expectant mother who emphasized the significance of her child being raised in a family that shares their cultural heritage. She was resolute in her decision to consider only families where at least one parent was African American. However, the reality was sobering – the options were limited. While we were able to honor the request of this mother, there are many for whom we cannot and will not, due to lacking diversity. This encounter highlights a pressing need for more African American families to step forward and open their hearts to adoption. Parents exploring adoption should have the opportunity to choose a family that resonates with their cultural identity and values. By expanding the pool of waiting families to include more diverse options, we can better serve the needs and preferences of birth parents, expectant parents, and parents who are exploring adoption.
At The Barker Adoption Foundation, our commitment to being child-centered extends to supporting birth parents and expectant parents in their quest for families who reflect the race and/or culture of their child. We recognize the desire of black and biracial birth and expectant parents to have meaningful options for their children. Thus, we actively recruit and support black families, ensuring that diversity is not just acknowledged but celebrated within our adoption community.
To those considering adoption, especially black families, we urge you to take the first step. Your decision to open your home to a child in need can make a world of difference. If you're unsure where to begin, we encourage you to reach out to us, where you'll find guidance and support every step of the way.
Diversity matters, not just in theory but in practice. Let's come together to build a more inclusive and diverse adoption community, where every child finds a loving and supportive family, and where racial mirrors are present within the home.
