BY: Jasmine Franklin
Published 1 month ago
Starting a family is a beautiful journey. Everyone has the right to the opportunity to be a parent. However, for LGBTQIA+ couples, it can come with challenges. Those challenges are amplified more now than ever with the recent election results.
While there’s progress in LGBTQIA+ family rights, navigating the adoption process can still feel like a maze. The good news? Resources are out there to guide you every step of the way, providing support, information, and connection. Whether you’re in the early stages of research or ready to take that next big step, these resources for LGBTQIA+ couples looking to adopt can help you make informed decisions and feel confident in the journey ahead.
LGBTQIA+ Families and the Adoption Journey
More LGBTQIA+ couples are embracing adoption. According to the 2020 Census Bureau, same-sex couples were three times more likely to adopt children compared to opposite-sex couples. For some, adoption offers a chance to build a family; for others, it’s a way to provide a loving home to a needy child.
Policies and adoption requirements vary widely across states and agencies, and LGBTQIA+ parents may face biases within specific adoption frameworks. However, as more queer families expand through adoption, there are growing networks, resources, and advocacy groups ready to offer guidance and support.
Here are five invaluable resources for LGBTQIA+ couples looking to adopt.
1. Family Equality
Family Equality is a national nonprofit advancing legal and lived equality for LGBTQIA+ families. Their website offers a robust adoption guide, breaking down each step, from finding an agency to finalizing the adoption. Family Equality also hosts online and in-person events where prospective LGBTQIA+ parents can learn from experts and connect with other families.
2. The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation’s “All Children – All Families” Project
The HRC’s “All Children – All Families” project rates adoption agencies based on their inclusiveness toward LGBTQIA+ families. This guide helps prospective parents identify LGBTQIA+-friendly adoption agencies, making the process less daunting and more supportive. Knowing you’re working with an agency that respects and understands your family’s needs is priceless.
3. AdoptUSKids
AdoptUSKids is a federal program aimed at helping all families, including LGBTQIA+ parents, adopt children from foster care. The website offers a dedicated section for LGBTQIA+ families, featuring resources on finding agencies and tips for navigating the foster care and adoption system. Their support doesn’t stop at adoption; they also provide resources for post-adoption support to help families thrive.
4. The National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR)
The NCLR provides free legal information and guidance for LGBTQIA+ couples looking to adopt. Their “LGBTQ Parenting“ section includes comprehensive guides on adoption law so couples can understand their rights and feel empowered in their decisions. NCLR also offers a helpline for prospective parents seeking personalized legal advice.
5. Transgender Law Center (TLC)
The Transgender Law Center (TLC) is a powerful resource for transgender parents and prospective adoptive families. TLC provides legal resources and advocacy for transgender people, including adoption support and family law information. They offer a range of materials on parental rights and connect trans parents with community resources and support groups. For transgender individuals and couples looking to adopt, TLC’s guidance can help ensure their rights are protected throughout the adoption journey.
With the right resources, LGBTQIA+ couples looking to adopt can move forward with clarity and confidence. While every adoption journey is unique, using these tools brings greater peace of mind. The support, community, and advocacy they offer can make a real difference for queer couples ready to open their hearts and homes.
What are your favorite resources for LGBTQIA+ couples looking to adopt? Let’s chat below.
