Ethics (or lack thereof) in Ethiopian Adoptions

Anna and her mother, Sept 2008

Earlier this year I attended an adoption-centered Christian women's retreat. One evening at dinner, some of my table-mates asked me my thoughts about ethics in Ethiopian adoptions. I gave a guarded response, knowing that many of these women were in process to adopt. Ultimately, I shared that I personally would not adopt a young, healthy child from Ethiopia at this time because of my concerns over the pervasive corruption in the system. I also shared some guidelines that I felt could help insure … [Read more...]

Adoption Is Trendy?

Yes, unfortunately adoption is trendy.   I am very worried about the consequences of adoption being something stylish, rather than a creation of a family.  (Fact: Ethiopian adoptions doubled following Angelina Jolie’s adoption of her daughter.)   International and transracial adoptions are quickly sweeping over Hollywood. As family that adopted internationally and transracially, I understand the reasoning behind intercountry adoption and embracing a child of any color. However, it … [Read more...]