Families whose friendships cross racial lines send a clear message about whom their kids can date.
Searching for Family Resemblance
For a mom who was adopted as an infant, the realization that her children look like her takes on special meaning.
“How I Deal with Nosy Questions”
Our daughter is not a public exhibit. She deserves to be protected from questions that undermine the legitimacy of our family.
“The Red Thread of Fate”
More than a decade ago, I was hopefully working my way toward an adoption from China. After a tragedy derailed my plans, I wound my way to family in an entirely different way.
10 Questions to Ask When Considering a Heritage Camp
Most are designed for families. Other camps are just for kids, such as Holt Adoptee Camp (right), a sleep-away experience for children ages nine to 16.
Adopted and Black in Middle America
Michelle Johnson, 38, adopted by white parents and raised in suburban Minneapolis, recently spoke with AF about her experiences.
Finding Black Role Models For My Children
Seeking and being embraced by members of the black community made me realize how much I need them to successfully raise my daughters.
“American-Indian, Indian-American”
American by birth, Indian by virtue of being raised by us, the hyphen may define my twins more than either of the terms throughout their lives.
“Breaking New Ground”
In the days leading up to a second adoption, a mother worries: Are we about to turn our lives upside down? How will our daughter handle losing her position at the center of our attention? Will I be able to make room in my heart for another child?
Chicken Feet for Thanksgiving
Tradition and ritual, especially during the holidays, signal security and family pride. And if you get creative, they just might reflect your distinct personalities, too.
The Hunt for Diversity in Small Town America
It’s hard enough to achieve a strong ethnic identity in a big city, but for those of us living in rural areas, the challenge can be even greater.
“The Wrong Kind of Asian”
I have confused and disappointed many people in my lifetime because I don’t look or behave the way they think an Asian ought to look or behave.
Ask AF: My Child Was Told by Peers That She’s “Not Really Chinese”
A parent reaches out for help after taunting at school left her daughter feeling shaken to the core and that she doesn’t belong anywhere. An adult adoptee and transracial adoption expert offers advice.
25 Children’s Books That Showcase Diversity
Kids need to be able to find characters who look like them in the books on their shelves. Here are some of our favorites that provide that powerful affirmation.
“Let’s Be Fair”
At nine, my daughter is becoming aware of the many ways in which the world is unjust, and is doing her part to promote fairness where she can.
“I Forgot to Be Scared”
A 13-year-old shares his adoption story.
“You’ve Got to Have Friends”
My daughter’s fascination with China was matched by her pleasure at sharing the return trip with friends who’d made the same journey.
Raising Black Children to Become Black Adults
An adult adoptee discusses ‘the Talk’—what white parents who adopt Black children must tell them about racism, interacting with the police, and staying safe.
[BOOK EXCERPT] The Hundred-Year Flood
This poetic novel features a transracial adoptee protagonist as he explores his identity and seeks answers about his past in an unfamiliar city. Accompanying the excerpt is a Q&A with the author, Matthew Salesses.
Ask the Transracial Parenting Expert: Teens and Dating
Our 14-year-old daughter is starting high school this fall. What might we expect in terms of dating?