Adoptee Exposes Systemic Racism in US Adoption Industry

Systemic Racism in Adoption: An Adoptee's Perspective The adoption industry in the US faces criticism for systemic racism, according to a recent video by adoption educator Guida Richards. Richards, an adoptee herself, shares her personal experiences with the trauma and complex emotions of discovering her adoption at age 19. She highlights the disparity in fees charged by agencies, often higher for prospective parents adopting Black infants. This practice, she argues, reflects a historical pattern of adoption upholding racially homogenous families. "If this is the type of 'verification' you all do, I think we all need to be more concerned," Richards says in her video, referring to online harassment she's faced. She challenges the notion that her book is simply an "angry rant," stating that it's a passionate exploration of a complex issue. Reviews from Publishers Weekly and Library Journal support the book's value, praising its insightful perspective and eye-opening arguments. Richards's work is a crucial contribution to the conversation on ethical adoption practices. Her call for self-reflection and anti-racist work from prospective parents is a powerful message that deserves wider attention. By sharing her personal story and research, Richards provides a much-needed voice and perspective on the need for reform within the adoption industry.