Black History Month

In celebration of Black History Month, Spence-Chapin is excited to highlight some of the many Black individuals, professionals, celebrities, and families who have contributed to the history of adoption in America, as well as to share some of the stories and perspectives that make up the Black Adoption Experience today. This page provides some educational, informative, and fun resources, videos, and blog posts that explore the past, present, and future of the Black Adoption Experience.

Celebrate With Us
African Dance Workshop

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Saturday, February 24th, 2024
12:30 PM – 2:00 PM EST

This year’s Black History Month theme is “African Americans and the Arts,” and Spence-Chapin and AAPAC are proud to host an African Dance class led by the iconic dancer and choreographer, Maguette Camara.

Join us in celebrating Black History Month through this fun, interactive and meaningful community-building workshop.

While the dance workshop is geared toward children and teens, all are welcome to attend this free event.

Dance spaces are limited. RSVP to secure your spot today!

Community Events

Saturday Storytime

BKLY Public Library

Saturday, February 24
11:00 AM – 11:45 AM

Featured Videos

Here and Now ABC 7 Interview

Antoinette Cockerham, Ian Rowe, and Latoya Sinclair discussing Spence-Chapin’s history in finding permanent homes for African American children for adoption.

Black Lives Matter: With Black Families, For Black Families

In this facilitated conversation with Kristin J. Carothers, Ph.D., Black families discuss the challenges they face because of institutionalized racism, the tools they use to cope, and how they can support and encourage one another to move forward in these trying times. This video was part of a Black Lives Matter Town Hall series presented by Spence-Chapin in response to the murder of George Floyd on May 25, 2020, as a way for families to come together in support and understanding. 

Black Lives Matter: How to be an Ally to the Black Community

As part of the Spence-Chapin Black Lives Matter Town Hall Series in May and June of 2020, this video presents a discussion moderated by Deborah Zicht, LSCW-R, CASAC, that addresses the ways in which white families can be effective allies to the Black community: How can I become an effective ally? How do I learn to recognize and confront the micro-aggressions that Black people deal with every day? How do I educate my children, my family members, and friends? 

Brooklyn Savvy: Transracial Adoption Revisited

Antoinette Cockerham of Spence Chapin talks about the challenges of transracial adoption.

FEATURED BLOG POSTS

REFLECTIONS ON SPENCE-CHAPIN HISTORY DURING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

This month as we celebrate Black History Month, I have found myself taking time to reflect on the history of African American adoption, the role that Spence-Chapin has played in that history, and the many encouraging changes I have witnessed in my 25+ career working in adoption.

SOUTH AFRICA ADOPTION STORY: JENNIFER AND RYAN

A mother reflects on her family’s transition at home after adopting her daughter from South Africa.

SPENCE-CHAPIN, A LEADER IN AFRICAN-AMERICAN AND BLACK INFANT ADOPTION

In honor of Black History Month, we revisit the efforts made by those who have fought to break barriers, making African-American and Black children a focus and a priority.

RACE, RACISM AND ADOPTIVE PARENTING RESOURCES

Spence-Chapin has created a list of resources for adoptive families who are looking to explore the complexities of race, racism and raising a child of color in America.  

Calendar

Our History in Photos

Black History Month Media

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