'In search of belonging: Reflections by transracially adopted people’

Abstract

Transracial adoption has provoked much polarised commentary, initiated heated debate and stirred up strong feelings. Yet the experience of transracially adopted people themselves remains on the margins and has rarely been given a voice. \n \nThrough a series of intensely moving testimonies, In search of belonging conveys the complexity for black and minority ethnic children of being raised by a white adoptive family. It demonstrates the lifelong impact of transracial adoption and illustrates that to view such placements in either positive or negative terms is far too simplistic. The themes of separation and loss, the search for identity and belonging permeate these accounts, but so does the power of healing and survival, happiness and hope. A wide range of experiences is described, including racism during childhood, placement disruption, visiting country or origin, reclaiming cultural heritage, searching for birth mothers, fathers and other relatives, becoming a parent, involvement with the psychiatric system and connecting with other transracial adoptees. \n \nThis highly original anthology brings together established writers, new and emerging writers and those who have never been published before. Through poetry, art, autobiography, memoir and oral testimony over 50 transracially adopted people tell it like it was, and is, for them. The contributors range in age from six to 56 years and were born and adopted both in the UK and countries as different as Kenya and Hong Kong, Cambodia, Sri Lanka and El Salvador. \n \nAs well as a Foreword by acclaimed poet Lemn Sissay, the book includes a substantial introduction and a comprehensive resource section. \n \nIn search of belonging is for all transracially adopted young people and adults. It will also be of interest to other adoptees, birth relatives, adoptive parents, prospective adoptive parents, social workers, social work students, family placement workers, counsellors, therapists, mental health and other professionals.

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