If you have walked through the world of adoption yourself or with a friend, you have something to say. You can be a voice for the Adoption Community. Here are a few ways that you can be that voice.
- Be open about your adoption experience.
I’ve found that one of the best ways to be a voice for adoption is to be open about your adoption journey. I love it when people ask me questions so that I can encourage them in their journey or possibly even correct thoughts and perceptions that people may have towards adoption. However open I may be, I am careful not to tell every detail of my boys’ stories. Adoption comes from a hard place no matter the circumstances of the adoption. The “hard to understand stuff” is part of their story, but it is THEIR story to tell when they are old enough to decide if they want to share. Being open is wonderful, just remember to do it with tact and grace and remember that not all the dirty laundry needs to be aired.
- Educate yourself.
In order to talk intelligently about adoption, you need to keep up to date with popular adoption stories, facts, and trends. Once people learn that you have adopted, they will ask your thoughts on current adoption events. Reading adoption articles or books helps you to compare varying viewpoints and learn about other facets of the adoption experience that may be different than your own.
- Find a writing or speaking platform.
Maybe you are good with words, written or oral. Take the things that you know about adoption and encourage others worldwide. Start a blog that focuses on adoption or become a freelance writer for a company that focuses on all aspects of adoption. You could even write a book detailing your adoption story. Once you develop a platform, opportunities may arise for you to speak to groups about adoption culture and your journey. You have a voice, use it.
- Support other adoptive families.
Think back to when you were beginning your adoption journey. What support did you receive from your community? What support was lacking and you wished had been there? You can help those new to the adoption journey by
- supporting the fundraising endeavors of prospective adoptive parents
- offering to make meals or help with laundry/housework when they arrive home with their newly adopted child
- reminding the adoptive family that you are praying for them
- joining an adoption support group or Facebook group to surround yourself with others in the adoption community
You may think that your experience and knowledge is not important. Any time that you can speak a positive word for adoption and promote understanding of adoption culture, you can make a difference. You never know how your story may be the one that encourages a family to step out and change a child’s life forever.
