We've already spent 12 days of it in ignorance, but I just learned today that November is National Adoption Month! (Thanks, Morning Edition.) The goal is to raise awareness that there are kids waiting to be loved through foster care, and also to celebrate the bonds that unite families through adoption in all forms. We can't know yet how our story will unfold because it is still being written. We'll spend the rest of the month focused on this celebration and on the simple mantra "it really does happen", since it has for so many hundreds of thousands of others. Congratulations to those of you with this part of the journey behind you and we'll light our candle of hope for the rest of us so our little ones can find their way to our hearts. As my dear friend put it, an adoption journey is not for the weak. But, each of us is committed for our unique reasons and we can't wait to wrap our arms around each other in an even bigger family hug.
If you find a way to bring it up to someone you think will listen, remember to pass along our story (the good, waiting and hopeful parts). You just never know how our kids will find us and you could be our missing link!
And, if you need some talking points.... :-)
Presidential Proclamation -- National Adoption Month, 2012
NATIONAL ADOPTION MONTH, 2012
- - - - - - -
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
As a Nation that believes all children deserve the chance to reach their full
potential, we have a fundamental responsibility to ensure each of them grows up
knowing the love and protection of a permanent family. During National Adoption
Month, we give voice to children who are still waiting for that opportunity,
celebrate the bond that unites adoptive parents with their sons and daughters,
and recommit to providing every child with the care and security that will
nurture their development and well-being.
Later this month, many Americans will also mark National Adoption Day by
completing a foster care adoption and embracing a new member of their family.
Driven by reasons unique to their households but united by the spirit of
compassion that moves all who choose to adopt, these parents will take up our
country's most important task -- the work of raising our sons and daughters. As
we celebrate the contributions of adoptive parents across our Nation, let us
also strive to eliminate discriminatory barriers that would separate foster
children from a loving family. Adoptive families come in many forms, and it is
essential that all qualified adults have the opportunity to care for a child in
need.
My Administration remains committed to helping every child find a loving
home. We have partnered with faith-based and community organizations across
America to help connect children with adoptive parents, and we continue to work
with State, local, and tribal governments to improve child outcomes; enhance
safety, permanency, and well-being; and support adoptive families. I was proud
to sign the Affordable Care Act and the International Adoption Simplification
Act, which have made it easier for families to adopt, as well as the Child and
Family Services Improvement and Innovation Act, which will help reduce the
length of time young children are without families. We have built on those
efforts as part of the National Adoption Campaign, which continues to bring
adoption and foster care into our national conversation.
Thousands of children living in America hope for the comfort and safety of a
loving family. This month, we pay tribute to the dedicated professionals who
help make those children's dreams a reality, sharpen our resolve to find a
permanent home for every child, and celebrate the stories of all whose lives
have been touched by adoption.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America,
by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the
United States, do hereby proclaim November 2012 as National Adoption Month. I
encourage all Americans to observe this month by answering the call to find a
permanent and caring family for every child in need, and by supporting the
families who care for them.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of November,
in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.
BARACK OBAMA
