Race, Racism & Transracial Adoption

Preparing families to recognize racism and actively support a child’s racial identity.

Love and belonging within the family are essential, but they do not prevent a child from experiencing racism outside the home. In transracial adoption, parents have an additional responsibility to understand how race affects their child’s experiences and to build the knowledge, relationships and advocacy skills needed to support them.

Do Not Use a ‘Colour-Blind’ Approach

Children notice race, and society responds to race. Saying that a family ‘doesn’t see colour’ can make it harder for a child to talk about experiences of racism or racial difference. Families can affirm that racial differences are real, meaningful and worthy of respect.

Believe and Listen

If your child says something was racist or made them uncomfortable, begin by listening rather than immediately explaining another person’s intent. You can help your child think through what happened without requiring them to prove their experience.

Build Racial Mirrors

Children need opportunities to see people who look like them in everyday roles: friends, teachers, professionals, leaders, neighbours, artists and community members. This is different from occasional exposure to a cultural event.

Parents Need Their Own Learning

Parents should continue learning about racism, bias and their own racial identity without relying on their child to be the teacher. For white parents raising a child of colour, this includes recognizing that parent and child may move through the same community differently.

What Can Help

  • Talk about race before a crisis occurs.
  • Choose diverse schools, neighbourhoods and activities when possible – not just diverse books.
  • Practise age-appropriate responses to stereotypes, comments and discrimination.
  • Advocate with schools, clubs and organizations when racism occurs.
  • Support hair, skin care and cultural practices with appropriate community knowledge.
  • Seek adult mentors and community connections without placing responsibility on one person to represent an entire culture.
  • Listen to adult adoptees and people from your child’s racial/cultural communities.

When to seek additional support

Racial harassment, discrimination and identity-based distress can have significant effects on wellbeing. Seek appropriate school, community, human-rights or mental-health support when needed.

Helpful Resources

Note: External resources are provided for general information. Services, eligibility and content may change. Families should
confirm current information directly with the organization.