How to Arrange an Interracial Adoption

An interracial adoption generally refers to adopting a child who is not of the same race as you or your partner, or it may simply refer to an interracial couple adopting a child of any race. Just like any other decision to adopt, the decision to arrange an interracial adoption is one that should begin with serious contemplation and research.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Complete an Interracial Adoption

1. Ask yourself how you will handle the issue of racism, which you and your adopted child may face. People of all races are affected by racism, and depending on the community in which you live, you may be exposed to it on a personal level. It will be important to be prepared with a plan of how to address this type of discrimination, should you encounter it.
2. Research the cultural background of the child you plan to adopt. It's important to have a thorough understanding of your child's heritage, as you will be one of the main sources of information for your child as he grows up. Many people find their racial backgrounds to be a significant part of their senses of self, so you should be sure that you will be able to provide your child with a good foundation of what it means to be part of his culture.
3. Choose an adoption agency and complete an application to adopt a child. If the agency approves your application, you will most likely need to attend classes about proper parenting and preparation for bringing home a child. A social worker may also need to visit your home for a series of meetings with you to determine if you are fit to be a parent.
4. Meet with a representative from the adoption agency of your choosing to discuss the children that are waiting to be adopted from various racial backgrounds. The adoption agency will usually be able to provide you with paperwork detailing the child's biographical information and background, as well as photographs of the child. You will not be able to meet the child immediately in most cases, but you will need to arrange a special meeting after your application is officially approved and finalized.
5. Go through the process of meeting the child you would like to adopt. If all goes well, finalize the adoption. Talk to your child about your racial differences early on, highlighting your similarities and framing your differences as positive, unique factors that you can now share together.

Tips & Warnings

• It is against United States law to deny adoption rights to anyone based on race, whether it is the race of the child or parent(s).
• Be prepared to wait several months or even years to arrange to adopt a child and to have your application for adoption officially approved.