Supporting Connections in Interracial Adoptive Families | Casa Mia at the Hawthorne
Family Events
Empowering our Families: Supporting Connections in Interracial Adoptive Families:
Join Dr. Tony Hynes, an interracial adoptee, in this engaging and interactive workshop focused on building strong connections within interracial adoptive families. Tony, who was at the center of a highly publicized custody battle over interracial adoption in Washington, D.C. in the 1990s, will share his personal experiences and insights into the complex dynamics of interracial adoption.Through his unique perspective, participants will explore the historical policies and practices that contributed to Tony and other children like him becoming subjects of intense public scrutiny. This workshop will also examine the various factors that created both challenges and opportunities for members of his two families. Reflecting on his own journey as a Black interracial adoptee, Dr. Hynes' research into social connectedness among adult interracial adoptees will be shared, providing valuable insights that can help strengthen the support systems of interracial adoptive families.This workshop offers a collaborative space for participants to ask questions, share experiences, and discuss the challenges faced by interracial adoptive families. Additionally, attendees will learn best practices for fostering diverse environments, promoting healthy racial identity development in children, discussing race and racism, and nurturing birth family connections. Come prepared to engage, learn, and grow as we work together to support interracial adoptive families.
Appropriateness for Social Work:40% of adoptive families in the United States are interracial adoptive families. To support these families, it is paramount to understand the unique challenges these families face. Research surrounding identity, connection, and race has shown that interracial adoptees require unique supports that are centered around understanding their multilayered experiences. This workshop by Dr. Tony Hynes, an interracial adoptee and researcher in adoption, explores his own research which highlights the needs of interracial adoptees throughout the life course. Social workers will gain insight on how to support interracial adoptive families at all stages of their development.
Objectives:
1. Learn how to support connections between adoptees and their adoptive families
2. Learn about the policies impacting disparities in child welfare related to interracial adoption.
3. Understanding how to foster belonging for adult interracial adoptees.
4. Understanding how to address challenging conversations with family, peers, and community members about interracial adoption.
Information Source: Connecticut Council on Adoption | eventbrite