Transracial Adoption Brandy Johannesson

Transracial Adoption Adoption of a child that is of a different race then that of the adoptive parents.

Supporters Argument Better off being adopted by families of a different race then not at all. Colorblindness Effort must be made to find diverse families willing to adopt. Adoptive families take classes on raising children of a different race. Incentive programs for transracial adoption. Not enough black families willing or able to adopt. Black children are left waiting much longer then white children.

Opposition Argument Prevents strong racial/cultural identity NABSW - black children are best raised by black families. Incentive programs are a literal devaluing of black children. Racial/cultural genocide. Not enough black families is a myth. Prohibiting any consideration of race in adoptive and foster care placement decision contradicts best practice standards in child welfare.

History of Transracial Adoption Minnesota 1948 first documented case of TRA. Eye color, hair color, facial features and race were considered. Race could be sole factor in placement. 1960’s prospective parents and agencies endorsed racial integration and colorblindness. TRA peaked in 1971 with 2,574 white/black adoptions. 1972 NABSW issued statement of opposition to TRA 1975 TRA dropped to 831.

Legislation Multiethnic Placement Act (MEPA). Interethnic Adoption Provision (IEP). Adoption of Safe Families Act (ASFA). Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS). Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) Adoption Assistance and Child Welfare Act (AACWA).

Statistics 1994 - 47% of children in foster care are black, 14% are white. 12.3% of the total U.S. population are black. Approximately 120,000 adoptions each year in U.S. 1987 (Most recent estimate of TRA) – 8% of all adoptions include parents and children of different races. 1% of white women adopt black children. 2% of women of other races adopt white children. Estimated 15% of the 36,000 adoptions in FY 1998 were transracial or transcultural. 75% of transracially adopted preadolescent and younger adjust well in their new homes.

Preparation and Best Practices Make sure your life is ready to handle the change. Consideration of race is allowed but not to be the only or ultimate deciding factor in placement. Attempt to find same race family first. Adoption process/wait must not be prolonged. The child must be surrounded by others like them and involved in their own cultural events.