August 13, 2013
Adoption News Round-up
Some pretty powerful stories in the adoption world this week – so much to be thrilled about, and so much to continue fighting for.
Jailed because of their transracial adoption? The California Innocence Project has taken on the case of Grace and Matthew Huang, who were charged with murder and imprisoned in Qatar, when one of their three adopted children, Gloria, tragically and unexpectedly died while they were visiting the country. Because Qatar doesn’t recognize adoption, there are questions about why this couple, who are Asian American, would adopt 3 African children. “The police investigating Gloria’s death found the family situation inherently suspicious. For example, the investigative police reports repeatedly suggest that Matthew and Grace could not have had a legitimate reason to adopt children who were not ‘good-looking’ and who did not share their ‘hereditary traits.’” This couple is clearly innocent, and we urge all members of the adoption community to pass along this information to help support their release.
A guest post on Rage Against the Minivan written by a woman who is 65 and still searching for her birth family is very powerful.
Adoption numbers are officially rising for children in foster care, news we couldn’t be more excited about. Although that number is only up by less than one percent, that percentage represents over 5,000 more foster children adopted in 2012 than 2011. “The data suggests states are striking a balance between improving the quality of child welfare services and moving children to permanent families,” the agency’s Bryan Samuels says in a statement. “Our role will be to continue to help states find that right balance with limited resources moving forward.”
Jennifer Pedley is a birth mother, a social worker and now an author about adoption with her new book, “Secrets to Your Successful Domestic Adoption.” She is an incredible adoption advocate who has a great deal of advice to share about how adoptive families can best approach their adoption journey. America Adopts! posted a great interview with her that is worthwhile for anyone or family at any stage of their adoption journey.
Waiting. We all know it as one of the most challenging parts of the adoption experience. So what do you do when you’re waiting for your call? Love Builds Families has some inspiring ideas – everything from reading to blogging – which help to keep your adoption journey active and present, even while you wait.