Every year, November is recognised as National Adoption Month in the USA. Throughout the month, there is a particular focus on raising awareness about the urgent need for adoptive families for children. It is helpful for us to think about this even in the UK as many of the themes are international.
The history of National Adoption Month
The history of National Adoption Month dates back to 1976 when Governor Mike Dukakis announced the very first Adoption Week. This idea grew in popularity, and quickly became a recognised awareness month nationwide. US president Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first National Adoption Week in 1984, and then later, Bill Clinton expanded this to the entire month of November.
How is it recognised?
During National Adoption Month, communities, businesses, families and individuals celebrate the benefits of adoption and raise awareness of it. Observances across the nation shed light on those in need of a forever home and loving, permanent families.
During National Adoption Month it's an important opportunity for birth and adoptive families alike to highlight the many facets of adoption and the impact it has on children around the world. Though adoption is widely accepted by many, there are still many people who have a negative perception of it, due to the loss and trauma involved It's important for those, like IAC, who stand by it to advocate for the adoption process and help eliminate the stigma that still surrounds it. Adoption is an incredible process which has helped improve the lives of many families and children. Adoption is also changing and IAC is helping to shape practice for more openness in adoption practice, and for years we have highlighted the importance of children and young people having a voice.
Closer to Home
Many adoption agencies in the UK are at the forefront of great innovations and this National Adoption Month IAC was introduced to Teen Talk Adoption (@TeenTalkAdopt Twitter and @TeenTalkAdoption Instagram). They are a group run by and for teenagers affected by adoption and are using their experiences to shape how we think about adoption. Here their Social Worker, Mel, talks about their work. https://youtu.be/ECpsSMlIkg8
Our Mission
Every year, National Adoption Month draws attention to children waiting for a new family of their own. It is our mission to place children from all over the world with loving families that will provide them with a permanent place to call home. We work in a clear, transparent manner with individuals that may require our adoption services. We believe that every child has a right to family life and have access to education and opportunity. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch today if you have any queries about adoption with IAC and we can point you in the right direction. #YouCanAdopt