Just like that we are wrapping up another wonderful month here at Adoption Mosaic! First, I want to celebrate the amazing panel we hosted on March 11th about the impact of MEPA/IEPA and ICWA on our adoptee Identities. As a community it’s essential that we understand the history, laws, and regulations that influence and shape our adoptee community. Seeing the mosaic of faces on my screen of all those who made it a priority to be present, to learn, and to listen filled my cup. As always, a big thank you to our panelists: Sandy, Daryle, Jordan, Sullivan, and Tori! Click here to purchase the panel recording. 

Second, I want to thank all the adoptees and adoptive parents who participated in our Better Together extravaganza weekend that included a photoshoot, dinners, brunches, conversation into the wee hours of the morning and, of course, a pizza party! It was absolutely amazing to be able to hug our Better Together members in real life after attending weekly Zoom meetings for the past two or more years. Shout out to those Better Together members who put in a lot of travel time to attend! 

Third, I want to say, “Welcome and hello!,” to all of the new friends I met at the Untangling our Roots summit in Louisville, Kentucky. I had the honor of being a keynote panelist and want to thank NAAP and Right to Know for hosting this event. All the conversations I had inside and outside the workshop rooms were energizing and inspiring. I look forward to continuing my connection with friends new and old. 

Finally, I want to share my excitement about working with two new collaborators. The first is the Colorado ORPC (Office of Respondent Parent Counsel). We are participating in discussions and collaborating with courts in Colorado as experts in transracial adoption to hold the state accountable to upholding the laws and standards of the child welfare placement act. The second is with an adoption agency who has retained Adoption Mosaic to provide monthly education on transracial adoption. I am so thrilled and humbled that Adoption Mosaic is recognized as experts in adoption by our professional community. It feels good to bring the lived experience of adoptees to the center of conversations in the professional arena. 

And, thanks to you for your continued support of me, Adoption Mosaic, and the work we are doing.