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Originally Posted By Carol

I live in a small community with very few children of color in our schools. I am wondering about the different agencies' feelings on (1) placing children with parents of a different background than that of the child's and (2) if the community that the child will be raised in is taken into consideration at all. Also, are there any religious considerations?

I am really thinking about this next step!

Carol

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Originally Posted By Your moderator

Under the Multi-ethnic Placement Act (MEPA) we cannot make placement decisions based on race. We help each family conduct a cultural assessment of their family and community and the decision to take or not take a child from another racial background is the family's. You can get more information on MEPA at the National Adoption Information Clearinghouse Website- Use keyword.

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One book I recommend for anyone thinking of adopting a child of color is "Gift Children." It is a fabulous book written by a couple who adopted two African-American girls back in the 70s. It is touching and honest. They raised their children in a primarily white community in Oregon, and they have a lot of insights. I also recommend reading a lot on racism and sociology in order to truly understand how to be a real advocate for a child of color.