Uncovering the Untold Stories of African American Families: A Journey Through Hidden Secrets.

When one's life is thrown into chaos, what options does one have? I found myself unable to rest, my mind consumed by racing thoughts all day and night. I was plagued by insomnia and random bouts of tears. Even watching movies became painful as it triggered my emotional wounds. For years, I had been able to suppress these feelings and move on. However, now that the truth has finally emerged, I find myself unable to ignore them.

Compounding this anguish is the fact that some family members do not understand my need to uncover more. "Didn't you have a good life?" they ask. "Your parents provided for you." Let me be clear – I had a wonderful childhood with two loving parents who have always been there for me. I have never denied these facts and never will.

However, I question when the African American family will stop hiding secrets. These secrets have a way of manifesting harm when they're finally revealed. We protect those who should not be protected and ignore or ostracize those who are innocent.

Adoption is not a shameful act. It is an act of love, selflessness, and generosity, and it should be celebrated. My parents concealed the truth from me and many others, for various reasons. The truth is they were unable to conceive but still desired a family. They opened their hearts and home to a newborn baby, whom they raised as their own. This should be celebrated. Had they not done so, who knows how different my life would have been.

Fertility issues are prevalent in the African American community. While more people are stepping up to become surrogates and opting for in-vitro fertilization, we cannot ignore the many children waiting to be adopted. Financial hardship, traumatic events, shame, and other circumstances can lead one to consider placing their baby up for adoption.

For me, the reason why I was given up for adoption only days after my birth is no longer of importance. I would like to know my lineage to provide accurate medical history when I go for doctor appointments. For years, I had unknowingly provided information based on my family who were not genetically related to me. Now, when I go, I leave that section blank as I have no information.

I will never abandon my search, and I will always advocate for adoption. This expedition is ongoing, and I am grateful that you are here with me for the journey.

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