Reclaiming Our Family Narrative: Setting Boundaries & Building Belonging

By April Dinwoodie

Transracial adoptive families represent diversity in a world that is constantly observing—even while professing, it doesn't “see color.” This reality makes it imperative that transracially adopted children are protected from the micro and macro aggressions they face by parents setting intentional, empowering boundaries. As a parent navigating the winding roads of adoption and identity, I've learned that fostering belonging begins with establishing clear, non-negotiable limits on what we accept from others.

Defining Our Space in a Noisy World

Every day, invasive questions and offhand assumptions challenge our privacy and personal truth. When strangers ask, “Where does your child really come from?” or imply that our family doesn’t quite “fit", it’s easy to feel exposed. However, these moments are opportunities to set boundaries, advocate for our narrative, and remind the world that our story is rich, complex, and not for public consumption. Responding with clarity and calm is an act of self-care and a declaration: our family is defined by us.

Creating Foundations of Belonging

Building belonging starts at home. It means having difficult, honest conversations with our children about their adoption, heritage, and the unique tapestry of identities that form who they are. As a parent, I ask myself:

  • What age-appropriate conversations can I have about their roots and identity?
  • How can I create an environment where my child feels unconditionally accepted?
  • What steps can I take to build a community that celebrates our unique family?

By preparing intentionally—establishing clear boundaries with those who may undermine our story—we create the conditions where children can explore and embrace every aspect of who they are. Within this thoughtful, structured environment, adopted persons can find the belonging they need and deserve.

Advocating for Our Truth in Public

Public perception often simplifies our stories. As parents, we must choose when to engage. It's okay to not answer invasive questions. By reclaiming control of our narrative, we teach our children that our family defines its own story.

Moving Forward Together

Parenting in a transracial family is challenging, requiring courage and compassion. We must educate ourselves, support each other, and stand firm in our belief that our family is beautiful and complete. Let's build communities that celebrate our diversity, ensuring our children experience a sense of belonging that honors every part of them. By reclaiming our narrative, we transform invasive assumptions into opportunities for growth and belonging.

This post is from our January 2025 newsletter. If you would like to get our newsletter in your inbox each month, as well as information about our annual Transracial Journeys Family Camp and our monthly Zoom call providing support for our transracial adoption parents, please subscribe.


Black Excellence – Alec Ingold

From the Field to the Family: Alec Ingold's Legacy of Giving Back

By K. Bean
Alec Ingold, fullback with the Oakland Raiders, during a game on December 29, 2019.

Alec Ingold stands as a shining example of Black excellence, both on and off the football field. As an NFL fullback for the Miami Dolphins, Ingold exemplifies dedication, athleticism, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His powerful blocking and contributions to the Dolphins' offense have solidified his place as a respected player in the league.

However, Ingold's impact extends far beyond the gridiron. Deeply rooted in his own experience as a transracially adopted child, he recognizes the profound importance of family and the transformative power of love and support. He understands firsthand the unique challenges faced by transracially adoptive children, including navigating issues of identity, race, and belonging.

Driven by this personal connection, Ingold is a passionate advocate for adoption. He established the Ingold Family Foundation, an organization dedicated to actively working to connect youth in foster care, particularly children of color, with loving and supportive families. He provides mentorship, resources, and a pathway to a brighter future, ensuring that these children have the opportunity to thrive.

Ingold's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of honoring one's roots. He embraces his heritage while breaking barriers in the NFL, inspiring countless individuals to strive for greatness in their own lives. His commitment to giving back to his community and advocating for foster and adoptive children exemplifies the true meaning of Black excellence – achieving success while uplifting others and making a positive impact on the world.

Read more about Alec’s adoption: Alec Ingold: Turning Adoption into a Superpower.

 


Black Excellence – Rachel Noerdlinger

By Bear Howe, TRJ Parent
Rachel Noerdlinger
Rachel Noerdlinger

Rachel Noerdlinger was born in 1970 in New Mexico, and adopted by white parents as a baby. Noerdlinger has made significant contributions in public relations and social justice. Known for her tenacity and expertise, she served as the Chief of Staff for New York City’s First Lady, Chirlane McCray, where she advocated for social programs and community empowerment. Noerdlinger also played a key role in organizing national events, including the public communications for George Floyd’s funeral, demonstrating her commitment to civil rights and social justice. She later became a partner at Mercury Public Affairs, marking her as the firm’s first Black woman partner—a groundbreaking achievement that speaks to her influence and leadership in the industry.

Noerdlinger speaks openly about how being a transracial adoptee has shaped her views on identity and belonging. She has spoken candidly about the nuances of transracial adoption, which has been a source of insight into the complexities of race and family. Her openness on this topic has been inspiring to many who face similar experiences, offering perspectives on self-acceptance and resilience. Noerdlinger has advocated for understanding and empathy, urging others to look beyond stereotypes and foster real conversations around race and inclusion.

Noerdlinger’s voice has been a guiding one for social justice and advocacy. She has expressed the importance of diversity, urging organizations to genuinely listen to communities rather than respond only in times of crisis. Her fearless approach to addressing tough issues and her drive for inclusivity have made her a respected figure. Her career reflects a commitment to making a positive impact, using her platform to challenge systemic inequities and advocate for underrepresented communities.

Noerdlinger’s latest venture is becoming partner at Actum, LLC, a leading communications and strategy firm that works with individuals, politicians, companies and organizations with advocacy mobilization, government relations, storytelling and narrative development and much more.

Learn more:

April Dinwoodie’s interview with Rachel Noerdlinger in 2018

PR and Media Activist Rachel Noerdlinger Stands on the Frontlines of Social Justice

Rachel Noerdlinger Makes History as the First Black Woman to be Named Partner at Mercury

Photo credits to: Rachel Noerdlinger


Costumes and Code-Switching: The Hidden Layers of Transracial Adoption

By April Dinwoodie, TRJ Part-time Executive Director, Speaker, Trainer  

It’s October and many children begin dreaming up costumes, reveling in the chance to put on a mask and become someone else for a night.  For many Black and Brown children in transracial adoptions, wearing a "costume" often extends far beyond October 31st. Transracially adopted children may feel the need to mask aspects of their identity and emotions daily as they navigate a world where they may feel out of place—even within their own families.

As a Black-biracial individual adopted into a predominantly white New England family, I became highly skilled at code-switching early on. I adapted to fit in, learned to downplay or accentuate parts of myself depending on the situation. I pretended to know how to breakdance, went out for the basketball team because classmates and coaches thought I’d be good at it, and laughed at some of the racist jokes, all to help me bond with my peers and fit in generally. On the outside, I was down with so much of what was being expected of me yet, behind the layers was an ongoing struggle to process the deeper emotional pain of feeling like an outsider because I was adopted and not fitting in Black or white spaces.

Code-Switching as a Survival Tool

Code-switching—the practice of shifting languages, behaviors, or cultural references depending on the social context—becomes a vital survival tool. For many children of color in white families, it’s not merely about fitting in; it’s a means of staying safe in environments where they may feel scrutinized or misunderstood. They learn to speak a certain way, act a certain way, and even express interests that might not be authentic to their true selves.

This constant adaptation comes at a cost. It can create a sense of fractured identity, making it difficult for a child to feel fully accepted or understood. Over time, the effort of constantly shifting can lead to emotional exhaustion and a sense of isolation.

The Emotional Toll of Wearing Masks

The emotional cost of wearing these masks is profound. As a child, I wore mine tightly, often feeling disconnected from both my Black and white identities. At home, I felt the need to dilute aspects of myself that felt "too Black" for my family’s context. Outside, I struggled to blend in with my peers, feeling as if I could only show parts of myself. This inner conflict made it difficult to process my feelings, and I often turned inward, searching for outlets to release the pressure of not fitting in.

The act of masking impacted more than just my identity; it affected my self-esteem and self-worth. Not feeling that I could be my authentic self, I internalized the belief that I wasn’t  enough as I was. It’s taken years of self-reflection, healing work, finding community, and clinical support to feel confident to remove my masks and feeling comfortable in my own beautiful skin.  

Practical Advice for Parents

As parents of transracially adopted children, it’s essential to do the internal work needed to provide a truly supportive environment. Part of this involves confronting your own biases, exploring how you’ve been shaped by societal norms, and being open to removing the “masks” you may unconsciously wear. By engaging in this self-reflection, you can help ease your child’s burden and create a space where they feel comfortable embracing their true self.

  • Recognize Signs of Code-Switching: Pay attention to changes in your child’s speech, behavior, or interests that seem context-dependent. For instance, they might alter their tone or language style around different groups or display an exaggerated interest in hobbies that don’t align with their usual preferences. Also, notice if they seem emotionally drained after social interactions, as code-switching can be exhausting.
  • Encourage Open Dialogue: Intentionally create space for the child entrusted to you to express their feelings. To truly hear and understand them, first examine your own perceptions of race and identity. Recognize any biases you may bring to the conversation and strive to listen without judgment. This process not only validates your child’s emotions but also demonstrates that it’s okay to feel the deep emotion that can be attached to being transracially adopted.
  • Create Culturally Affirming Spaces: Go beyond simply surrounding your child with culturally relevant books, media, and experiences. Reflect on how you engage with their culture and consider ways to genuinely integrate it into your family life. Explore community events and cultural activities not just for your child’s benefit but also as an opportunity for you to learn and grow, too. 
  • Support Authentic Expression—Including Your Own: Encourage children and youth to explore their interests freely, without imposing societal or familial expectations on them. Take time to reflect on how you may have altered or masked parts of yourself to fit certain roles, and consider how unmasking your own authentic self can help foster a deeper connection with children entrusted to you. By modeling authenticity, you show them that they don’t need to hide parts of who they are to be loved and accepted.
  • Create a Safe Environment for Authenticity: Encourage your child to share how they feel in various settings and how they present themselves in different contexts. Acknowledge their experiences, and let them know they don’t have to adapt or mask themselves to fit in. This helps reinforce that your home is a place where they can fully be themselves without judgment.

Embracing True Identity Beyond the Mask

While my parents were loving me and providing a truly wonderful life for me and my siblings, they were unaware of the complexity of the masks I was wearing and if I asked them today, I don’t think they’d likely even have heard of code-switching.  They certainly didn't have the insight to understand my journey to belonging and embracing my full identity required peeling away the layers and examining the ways in which I was Learning to adapt to their environments. As I learned more and found support, I took all the best parts of their love and learned to embrace the fullness of my identity, celebrating and nurturing every aspect of myself rather than hiding parts to fit in.

As parents and allies today, you have the power to help make this journey easier. By fostering an environment where your child can be naturally them—unapologetically and without compromise—you give them the tools they need to navigate the world with confidence and pride. Ultimately, the greatest gift you can offer is the freedom to be themselves.  This Halloween, let the only costume for transracially adopted children be one of their own making—a celebration of every part of who they truly are.

This post is from our October, 2024, newsletter. If you would like to get our newsletter in your inbox each month, as well as information about our annual Transracial Journeys Family Camp and our monthly Zoom call to provide support for our transracial adoption parents please subscribe.


Black Excellence: Keegan-Michael Key

By Becca Howe, TRJ Parent
Keegan Michael Key

Image attributed to Gage Skidmore, via Wikimedia Commons

Keegan-Michael Key is an actor, comedian, writer and producer, known for his sharp social satire and innovative sketches in shows like Key & Peele, which he co-created and starred in with Jordan Peele, and Schmigadoon, as well as his work in television, film and on Broadway.

Key was born in Detroit, Michigan, to parents Carrie Herr and Leroy McDuffie. He was adopted at a young age by Patricia Walsh and Michael Key. His mother of origin and his adoptive mothers are white, and his father of origin and his adoptive father are Black. Being biracial and raised in a biracial household played a significant role in his upbringing and helped shape his understanding of identity and race, themes that often appear in his work. 

Being biracial and raised in a biracial household played a significant role in his upbringing and helped shape his understanding of identity and race, themes that often appear in his work.

In interviews, Key has shared that his adoption journey and being biracial gave him clarity about identity from an early age. He learned to appreciate the diverse perspectives of both communities, and this duality helped him find empathy and understanding in his personal and professional life. He has said that his background allows him to see situations from multiple points of view, which has influenced his approach to comedy, particularly in exploring social and racial dynamics. Key has also mentioned that his experiences with adoption and race helped him develop resilience and self-awareness, giving him the tools to address topics like race, identity and privilege with nuance and humor in his work on Key & Peele and beyond.

For more from Keegan-Michael Key:

On adoption: https://youtu.be/XlQV7P6yj-M?si=5En-fE2K6hhCcdhT

On comedy: https://www.npr.org/2023/10/10/1204833725/keegan-michael-key-breaks-down-how-he-sets-up-a-joke


Black Excellence: Colin Kaepernick

By Becca Howe, TRJ Parent
Colin Kaepernick

Photo Credit: Ted S. Warren-AP/Shutterstock.com

Colin Kaepernick

Photo Credit: Blair Getz Mezibov Qiu

Colin Kaepernick Changes the Game

On August 26, 2016, NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick took his first knee during the national anthem at an NFL preseason game. This action was part of his protest against racial inequality and police brutality in the Unites States. His actions made the whole country pay attention, and helped ignite the national debates around Black Lives Matter and what role athletes can play in social activism, as well as the meaning of patriotic gestures during sports and elsewhere.

After the 2016 season, he lost his position as an NFL player, and no team has been willing to let him play since. He has continued his advocacy work, including community outreach and education initiatives.

Kaepernick’s resolve and bravery, to be one of the most visible leaders in contemporary efforts to end police brutality and race discrimination, and his willingness to risk his job and passion, have inspired people all over the world.

Colin Kaepernick is also transracially adopted. He grew up with his adoptive family and excelled in sports, played college football at the University of Nevada, Reno, and was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2011. Kaepernick feels a strong connection to his biological roots, and has spoken openly about the complexities of identity and cultural heritage, and has used his platform to advocate for greater awareness of adoption issues and the importance of embracing diverse backgrounds. His upbringing has had an important impact on his social activism.

To Learn More:

Colin Kaepernick: Hopes of a 2022 NFL Comeback, from I am Athlete:

Photo credits:

  1. Ted S. Warren-AP/Shutterstock.com
  2. Blair Getz Mezibov Qiu
  3. Blair Getz Mezibov Qiu

Book Corner – July 2024

By Becca Howe, TRJ Parent

Book Corner – Brooke Randolph: It’s Not About You

Understanding Adoptee Search, Reunion, & Open Adoption

It’s Not About You: Understanding Adoptee Search, Reunion, & Open Adoption is a book written for adoptive and birth parents and their therapists. After repetitive conversations with adopted persons (and sometimes their parents) about reactions to their search and reunion, Brooke knew adoptive and parents of origin needed a book on the topic.  

Brooke is a therapist, author, speaker, trainer and an adoptive parent who enjoys sharing with groups of all sizes whether that is in person or online. Both therapeutically and personally, she is committed to never stop learning and growing. Primary specialties for Brooke include adoption competent therapy, Brainspotting, relationship building, and developmental trauma. Brooke is a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, a Certified Brainspotting Trainer & Consultant, and coordinator for the groups Brainspotting Indy and Brainspotting with Adoption.

This year, we are thrilled to have Brooke joining us at the Transracial Journeys Family Camp to help bring to life parent work sessions  centered on creating a brighter path to inclusivity for transracially adopted persons as well as the extended family.  

https://brooke-randolph.com/author-brooke/


Black Excellence – Isaac Etter

By Becca Howe, TRJ Parent
Isaac Etter, transracial adoptee

This month we are combining our Black Excellence and Book Corner featuring Isaac Etter.  Isaac is a transracially adopted person and a social entrepreneur who founded Identity, a startup focused on helping adoptive and foster families thrive. At Identity, Isaac is working on re-imagining post-placement support for adoptive and foster families. He uses his story and deep passion for adoption and foster care education to bring relevant, quality, and diverse resources to adoptive and foster parents.

Isaac utilizes his experience of being adopted to curate deep conversations about race, identity, and adoption. With his unique insight, Isaac facilitates impactful discussions about adoption's impact on children and how parents can support their children in navigating identity and racial identity development. He specializes in helping child welfare professionals and parents understand the unique challenges and joys involved in transracial adoption and fostering.

A Practical Guide: Transracial Adoption.

As a special offer to the TRJ community, Issac has created a special offer - $17.75 for his Identity guide, A Practical Guide: Transracial Adoption. Now including two bonus chapters! One written by Julie Etter, adoptive mother, and an extended Q&A chapter.

Currently Isaac is working on releasing an update of his Black Hair Care guide to include QR links to explanations of tools, products, and also walkthroughs. Learn more about Issac and his work here and listen to monthly podcast episodes of Inside Transracial Adoption with his mom. Link: https://www.youtube.com/@identitylearning

Book Corner – Brooke Randolph: It’s Not About You

Understanding Adoptee Search, Reunion, & Open Adoption

It’s Not About You: Understanding Adoptee Search, Reunion, & Open Adoption is a book written for adoptive and birth parents and their therapists. After repetitive conversations with adopted persons (and sometimes their parents) about reactions to their search and reunion, Brooke knew adoptive and parents of origin needed a book on the topic.  

Brooke is a therapist, author, speaker, trainer and an adoptive parent who enjoys sharing with groups of all sizes whether that is in person or online. Both therapeutically and personally, she is committed to never stop learning and growing. Primary specialties for Brooke include adoption competent therapy, Brainspotting, relationship building, and developmental trauma. Brooke is a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, a Certified Brainspotting Trainer & Consultant, and coordinator for the groups Brainspotting Indy and Brainspotting with Adoption.

This year, we are thrilled to have Brooke joining us at camp to help bring to life parent work sessions  centered on creating a brighter path to inclusivity for transracially adopted persons as well as the extended family.  

https://brooke-randolph.com/author-brooke/


Freedom

Considering the Complexities of Freedom

By K. Bean

As we delve deeper into our history and the true essence of freedom, July 4th becomes a day of profound reflection. It invites us to consider the complexities of freedom and to question who is genuinely free and under what circumstances. This exploration is particularly relevant in the context of transracial adoption, where understanding our identities and truths as individuals and families becomes paramount.

The concept of freedom, as celebrated on Independence Day, is multifaceted. It encompasses not just the political liberation from colonial rule for some but also the ongoing struggle for social, economic, and personal freedoms. While the Declaration of Independence proclaimed that all men are created equal, the reality of freedom has been unevenly distributed throughout American history. This discrepancy prompts me to ask: Who is really free, and when?

For many, the journey to freedom is intertwined with personal history and identity. In my family, this journey involves exploring and understanding the truth of who we are. It’s important to me that we intentionally create a space for our boys to explore their full identities. Adoption has added layers of complexity to each of our identities, often involving questions about heritage, belonging, and self-discovery. For my boys, freedom includes the ability to access their personal histories, understand their cultural roots, and reconcile their identities with us and broader society.

Freedom to Explore Identities

The freedom to explore their identities is supported and encouraged, however, they have limited access to information about their origins and backgrounds. Fostering connections with the families they were born to and creating an environment where open and honest conversations can happen is ideal. This exploration is not just about satisfying curiosity; it is fundamental to developing a strong, healthy sense of self. With that said, the pain of the past has caused a barrier between their family of origin and the 4 of us. Every ask, every text, every promise is a reminder there are barriers to having the freedom to know all parts of themselves.

Freedom: An Ongoing Process

July 4th, therefore, becomes an opportunity to reflect on how these principles of freedom apply within the microcosm of our families. It encourages us to think about how we can create the conditions where every family member feels free to express themselves and explore their identities. This means celebrating differences, acknowledging the complexities of adoption, and understanding that freedom is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing process.

Contemplating How Race and History Impact the Experiences of Adoptees

In contemplating freedom, we must also consider the broader social context. Historical and systemic inequalities have meant that the promise of freedom has not been equally realized by all. For transracially adoptive families, understanding these broader issues is crucial. It involves recognizing how race and history impact the experiences of adoptees and being advocates for social justice and equity.

Reflect on the True Meaning of Freedom

In July and all year long, let’s make time to reflect on the true meaning of freedom, consider who is genuinely free, and acknowledge that freedom is an evolving journey. By doing so, we honor the spirit of independence, not just through celebration but through a commitment to continuous growth, understanding, and the pursuit of true freedom for all.

This post is from our July, 2024, newsletter. If you would like to get our newsletter in your inbox each month, as well as information about our annual Transracial Journeys Family Camp and our monthly Zoom call to provide support for our transracial adoption parents please subscribe.


Black Excellence: Michael Franti

By Becca Howe, TRJ Parent

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by Michael Franti (@michaelfranti)

Michael Franti is an American singer-songwriter, poet, activist and documentarian known for his socially conscious music. His work spans several genres including hip hop, reggae, jazz, folk and rock. Franti was born in Oakland, California, in 1966, the biological son of Mary Lofy and Thomas Hopkins. He was adopted shortly after birth by white parents Carole Wisti and Charles Franti, who had four other children—one adopted and three biological—and raised their children in the diverse and multi-cultural Oakland, California.

Franti talks openly about his adoption, and says that the experience has profoundly influenced his understanding of identity, belonging and social justice. Growing up bi-racial in a predominantly white family challenged his sense of identity, and fostered a deep sense of empathy and awareness for racial and cultural issues.

You may know Franti from his 2008 single, “Say Hey (I Love You)” which became a major hit and showcased his ability to create infectious, uplifting music. He produced and directed the film, “I Know I’m Not Alone,” which documented his travels through war-torn regions and the power of music to heal.

Franti met his biological father for the first time when he was 22 years old, and says about his biological father that he was wicked smart, and was the first African American researcher in the lab that developed the birth control pill. He remembers his first father as being socially awkward and not always emotionally present. He didn’t get to have his biological father with him on a daily basis growing up like he did with his adoptive father, but Franti says he feels his biological father inside, and has developed an understanding that in this way he has always had his father with him.

Franti is known for his warm and engaged stage presence and has dedicated his life to promoting messages of unity, positivity and generosity. In interviews he has spoken about the positive and supportive environment his adoptive parents provided and the importance of acceptance and love at home, which is reflected in his art.