For many years, I would not consider transracial adoption. Before you jump to any conclusions, allow me to elaborate. My entire extended family has been accepting of every child who has ever come through our licensed foster home. We have fostered over 100 children from newborn to 18, of Hispanic, African American, Caucasian, and mixed heritage with a variety of issues and special needs. Therefore, the acceptance of my family did not affect my decision. I have been able to love and care for each of these children. Their race, origins, beliefs, and special needs have not prevented me from loving each of them. However, I noticed repeatedly while shopping with my children that many people treated me differently when one of those children was of a different race.

Certainly I did not mind at all how black people treated me. Most AA people were friendly and commented on how cute the child was. Others would ask if the child was mine, which I always affirmed. Black Americans did not prevent me from considering transracial adoption.

It was prejudice Caucasian, mostly older, Americans who prevented me from considering transracial adoption. Sometimes they would say rude thing to me, calling me an N lover, which of course, I affirmed. Certainly, I love these children but I do not appreciate slandering in front of innocent children. Some looked down at me with obvious disdain because I had an AA child in my cart or stroller. Therefore, for many years, I missed out on chances to adopt beautiful, intelligent, children of AA or mixed heritage because I was not comfortable with the way some people treated me.

Fortunately, for me and my beautiful daughter, I got over it. I am so proud and in love with my daughter, that I do not even notice anyone being condescending. My daughter is so friendly, outgoing, and bright eyed, that a person would have to be blind not to think she is wonderful. Occasionally my husband has remarked that he thought someone gave us evil looks for having a child of mixed heritage. Frankly, I have not noticed or figured they were having a bad day. I do not look for the opinion of others. The first time someone says something to hurt my daughter’s feelings, they are likely to get kicked in the shin by me. She is my pride and joy.

Photo Credit: Jennifer Fuller