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Originally Posted By Gablplus

I have noticed lately that Disney -- and other movie studios have been putting out movies that contain negative adoption language and negative messages about adoption. The most recent is the release of the "Country Bears" ads -- in the first couple of seconds>> the bear child sitting with his human family asks: "Mom, am I adopted?" to which the mother quickly replies "Oh, of course not dear" with a brush of her hand.

Another negative message -- one that's all to common in this society -- is in "Lilo & Stitch" -- one of the scenes they use for ads is a woman at the animal shelter showing someone "our adoptable pets".

One other instance was last year's "Snow Dogs" in which the main character (Cuba Gooding Jr.) is handed a legal notice in the first 5 minutes and then informed (at age 35) by his mother that he was adopted. He then continues through the movie to search out his "real" father and find out more about his "real" mother.

I know I can't be the only one who is bothered by these negative messages being put out there --- and not just movies! All the "adopt-a..." programs that are out there -- if we stand up and complain and make requests that they change -- maybe they'll finally pay attention! I think that as parents who have chosen to make our families through adoption it's paramount that we protect our children from ridicule and negative messages about the way they entered our families. As we all know -- adoption isn't "the easy way" and it's not something we did on the spur of the moment. I also don't want my children thinking adoption something that should be hidden or ashamed of. I am VERY dissapointed and angry at Disney and other movie studios who continue to ignore the needs and feelings of the adoption community. Do you feel as I do? Are you willing to do something like send a mass petition or boycott or something -- I am writing a letter to Disney Studios and sending it snail mail -- since I can't find ANY email for concerns or comments on their website.

I'd be interested in comments, suggestions and support in this -- THANK YOU!

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Originally Posted By Neil

I don't think I've seen any of the movies you mention.

But I've seen the trailer for Country Bears, and it seems pretty obvious to me - and seemed to me to be obvious to others in the theatre - that that's the joke. The 'child' obviously IS adopted, and the denial is absurd. Adoption isn't being shown as bad, it seems more that lying is. I happen to agree with that point.

As for Lilo & Stich, and Snow Dogs, I don't think we can blame Disney for general language usage in our society which they have (apparently accurately) portrayed.