H.R. 191 was introduced and adopted on November 10, 2021.

Description

The resolution declares November 10, 2021 as adoption awareness day in the state of Michigan. It further recognizes adoption as a loving alternative to abortion.

Background

Both infant adoptions and adoptions from the foster care system are recognized under the adoption awareness resolution. The resolution is offered annually and enjoys broad bipartisan support. Thousands of children are in the foster care system every year in the state with over 2,400 eligible for adoption. Last year, 1,650 children were adopted from the foster care system. 29,669 abortions took place in 2020, yet only a few hundred infant adoptions occurred. For every one infant adopted, approximately 36 couples are waiting to adopt a baby.

History

Adoption Awareness week was first declared at the federal level in 1984 by President Ronald Reagan as a way to honor adoptive parents and to raise awareness about adoption and the needs of children. After many states began adopting adoption awareness weeks, it became evident that one week was not sufficient to highlight adoption. So, in 1995 President Bill Clinton declared November adoption awareness month, and it has been celebrated ever since.