China recently announced the suspension of international adoptions, impacting Chinese adoptees like Maze Felix. The decision has left adoptees feeling a mix of emotions, from anger to relief to confusion. Despite differing opinions, many adoptees feel a sense of loss with the end of a program that played a significant role in their lives. Grace Newton, an adoption researcher and Chinese adoptee, highlighted the importance of adoptees finding connection and community with others who share similar experiences.
The suspension of international adoptions is part of China’s response to changing demographics and policies, including the reversal of the one-child policy in 2016. The decline in birth rates and challenges related to economic and political issues have led to adjustments in adoption policies. While the end of international adoptions may help children maintain their birth culture, it also raises concerns about the impact on existing adoptees’ records and ties to their home country.
Adoptees like Katelyn Monaco have reflected on the impact of the one-child policy, which led to many children in social welfare systems. Monaco sees potential positives in the new policy, such as helping children remain connected to their heritage. However, she also acknowledges the challenges adoptees face in understanding and embracing their cultural identities.
Newton emphasized the need for increased support for children in China’s social welfare system and highlighted the complexity of adoptees’ experiences. Adoptees should be central to discussions surrounding adoption policy changes, as their perspectives and needs are often overlooked. Newton stressed the importance of recognizing that adoption is an ongoing process that can have lasting effects on individuals’ identities and lives.
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