Generation Y and Interracial Adoption

Generation Y is coming into the age where the proverbial “biological clock” is ticking louder and louder, telling some it is time to have kids and start a family. However, with the ever changing and controversial topic of what a “family” is, taking the “normal” route to parenthood may no longer appeal to the masses, and adoption may become a more popular way to begin, add, or be the end-all method to make a family.

Moreover, with what should be a moot discussion over interracial marriage in this day-and-age, the adoption of a child outside of one’s race is bound to be an interesting topic and forefront discussion as Generation Y and our new sense of “family” become the parents of tomorrow’s future.

In 1990, according to Adoption.com, 14 percent of the almost 120,000 adoptions in the United States were transracial/transcultural adoptions. Though the percentages of interracial adoptions, and popularity amongst other races are lower than the “traditional adoption” of intra-racial adoption, it is an increasingly popular option and yields no significant difference of outcome of the child than “traditional” adoption arrangements. The increase in this option is an exciting prospect for many, but some considerations need to be taken.

We researched popular articles and sources to compile a list of concerns which repeatedly showed up regarding interracial adoptions. We feel it is especially worthy for Generation Y to understand these points as to further help those who are considering interracial adoption to begin their transition into parenthood.

Top 5 Concerns When Considering Interracial Adopting:

Racism
(About.com)

“Racism is out there despite the huge changes in our world. Are you prepared to handle questions from people, sometimes total strangers, about your child’s heritage or parentage? What about the opinions of your extended family? Unlike strangers where comments will be new, with family one usually knows what to expect. Does it bother you that an Uncle uses racial slurs…”

Cultural Identity
(Wikipedia.com)

“Parental encouragement of cultural activities & co-participation in them seemed to be critical in the development of ethnic identification.”

Health/Skin/Hair Care
(About.com)

“Each race has its own susceptibility to different medical problems. Have you educated yourself on the different medical and skin conditions that children of color may develop?”

Siblings
(Adoption.com)

“It is always good for siblings to be adopted together. It is no different in the case of transracial or transcultural adoption. Siblings who are adopted together have the security of seeing another person in the family who looks like them…”

Age
(About.com)

“Children begin to see that each person has different physical characteristics around the age of 3 or 4. One of the first things noticed is the color of skin.”  Take into consideration the age you choose to adopt your child, the age you choose may influence your need to prioritize your tactics in engaging your child culturally.