Benefits of Transracial Adoption: Should I Choose a White Family for my Black Baby?
By Casey Bonds
If you are facing an unexpected pregnancy and considering putting your baby up for adoption, know that you are not alone. Choosing adoption can be difficult all on its own, and picking an adoptive family may be an even bigger challenge. If you are a birth mother in Kansas searching for “Adoption agencies near me,” one of the many traits you might consider when choosing an adoptive family is the race of its members.
What is transracial adoption?
An adoption in which a baby is adopted by a family of a different race is called an interracial adoption. Transracial adoptions are also sometimes called interracial or multiracial adoptions.
American adoptions are becoming increasingly transracial as US culture expands its definition of “family.” As one of the top Adoption agencies in Kansas, Adoption Choices of Kansas is experienced in transracial adoptions.
Transracial adoptions can be beneficial for you, your child, and your child’s adoptive family, which is why we encourage you to consider transracial adoption.
Here are three great reasons to consider transracial adoption as a Black birth mother in Kansas.
Your child can have a deep understanding of multiple cultures
“Culture” isn’t just about art, music, and food. Things like spoken dialects, etiquette, and even ways of thinking are also a part of a culture. One great reason to consider a white adoptive family is that transracial adoption gives your child an opportunity to experience two different cultures.
Growing up with an adoptive family of another race offers your child a unique perspective on life. Understanding white and Black cultures deeply can enhance their knowledge of both cultures, allowing them to access inspiration others may never get to experience.
An understanding of both Black and white perspectives can also help them become better communicators. As their adoptive family directly or indirectly teaches them how they see the world, children in transracial adoptions may relate to their family’s race in a way others may not. In this way, your child may develop unique skills that enable them to become exceptional advocates for themselves and their communities.
Transracial adoption can enhance your child’s ability to empathize with others and make connections that transcend cultural differences.
Your child will still connect with Black culture
As a Black birth mother, you might be hesitant to place your child with a white family. You might be worried your baby won’t connect with Black culture or that a white adoptive family won’t be able to prepare them for life in a racist society.
However, Black children adopted by white families still share many of the same experiences that other Black children go through. Your child will still make connections with others in the Black community, and their cultural identity will be highly influenced by Black culture and their experiences in the Black community.
Additionally, open adoption allows you to be involved in your child’s life and communicate with their adoptive family at your own pace. With an open adoption plan, you can teach your child about your experiences and help them develop an understanding of the world around them.
In an interracial adoption, while your child will learn about their white family members’ experiences, they will still have many opportunities to learn about and participate in Black culture.
You can exchange experiences with your child’s adoptive family
Many birth mothers who choose open adoption plans wish to get to know their child’s adoptive family. Exchanging cultural experiences is a great way to bond with the adoptive family.
While this can seem intimidating, remember that many prospective adoptive families are happy to meet with you and look forward to developing a relationship with you. Keep in mind that families that are open to adopting a child of a different background are likely more than happy to learn about other cultures. Sharing your culture can better equip the family with the knowledge and skills they need to help your child develop their multicultural identity, and this can help ease your anxiety.
Additionally, learning about the adoptive family’s culture can help you connect with your child throughout their life. Things like family traditions, ancestry, and culture-specific language can be good to know when visiting your child and their family.
Discussing cultural differences and similarities with your baby’s adoptive family can be an enriching experience for both you and the adoptive family.
Transracial Adoption in Kansas
If you are a birth mother considering transracial adoption, contact Adoption Choices of Kansas. Our Wichita adoption specialists will support you through every stage of your adoption journey. We have experience with transracial adoptions, and we are happy to answer all of your questions. So, when searching for “Adoption agencies near me,” look no further than Adoption Choices of Kansas.
Choosing adoption is not giving up. If you need unplanned pregnancy help now, Adoption Choices of Kansas serves birth parents statewide and beyond. We can help with teen pregnancy, financial assistance, difficult situations, and more. Please call us or text us to learn more! Call Us 877-903-4488 or Text Us 316-209-2071.