It appears there is some terrible news coming out of Addis Ababa at this time. The court has placed a hold on all cases involving children abandoned in Addis. This is due to an agency that presented a batch of children abandoned in Addis who all had questionable backgrounds, and the judge became suspicious. Of course, it's good when judges catch things like that. It just leaves subsequent families devastated, in limbo, awaiting the unknown. This hold IS in the best interest of the children, though. They haven't released the name of the agency involved, but our director is in Ethiopia now and I'm certain he's getting to the bottom of this, and we'll hear some news soon. I was red in the face about it all yesterday, not only for the families who are now being affected, but because this type of questionable practice hurts so many people. So often, certain agencies see the red flags and continue to work with questionable people just to keep the funds coming in. It happens in the smallest percentage of adoptions (about 1-2%) however the effects are enormous, across the board. I'm glad the investigation is taking place, angry that there are corrupt people who don't have the child's best interest at heart, and know ultimately that this will make Ethiopian adoption courts more careful for the sake of the children and birth families in Ethiopia. In any and all sectors of life there is corruption, and it's unfortunate how many people have to suffer when it happens to the adoption community.
I do know our agency is one of the most ethical working in Ethiopia. The orphanage of Toukoul has been opertaing since the 1980's and are a French operated NGO. I know for a fact that they always makes sure to verify every last detail of relinquishment/abandonment multiple times prior to giving referrals, and before court. At this moment, we're selfishly grateful we don't have our referral because if she'd been born in Addis we'd be lost and devastated right now. I'm hoping each case can be investigated thoroughly and quickly so that current waiting families can move through this painful bump. The court is continuing to hear adoption cases from relinquished children, and children born outside of Addis. My heart is with anyone who may be waiting, wondering whether their case will be heard. *Sigh* this uncertainty is unfortunately the nature of adoption...it requires so much faith, strength and determination.
A Dear Prudence Dress
7 years ago
1 comment:
Hi! I stumbled on your blog when searching for some information about the Addis courts, and wanted to let you know that your last entry was encouraging and so touching. My sister, who is from Texas but lives in China now with her husband and four children, is also adopting a sweet little girl, Makaria, from Ethiopia. Their court date is actually today, believe it or not, and they are waiting as I'm typing this for word from their agency about their case. Their daughter was also relinquished, but like Amelie, she is not from Addis, so we have been praying unceasingly for favor. I wanted to send encouragement back your way as you are also waiting for your court date. I will be sure to let you know in another comment as soon as she hears something. We will also be praying for Amelie now, and hope that she will be in your arms very soon! my sister's blog is: rescuedremnant.blogspot.com
who knows-maybe you will both be in Ethiopia at the same time, very soon, to bring your daughters to their new home!
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