St. Johns Conference in Collaboration with Montclair State University announces the 2016 conference and call for proposals. Note the new conference site in NJ. Details at the conference page.

The 9th Biennial Adoption Conference

Myth and Reality in Adoption:

Transforming Practice Through Lessons Learned

New Spring Season: June 9-11, 2016

Thursday evening through Saturday afternoon

New Conference Site: Montclair State University, Montclair, New Jersey

DEADLINE FOR PROPOSALS: NOVEMBER 16, 2015

Myth and Reality in Adoption: Transforming Practice Through Lessons Learned

For the 2016 conference, we will draw upon the lessons that the history of adoption and the practice of adoption have taught us. Over time, adoption practice has shifted from a practice focused upon social reform targeting marginalized members of society to a more modern practice in which adoption is marketed as both a form of family creation and as a form of rescue within a larger industry. These shifts in adoption practice have taken place largely at the behest of those wielding social and political power, whereas those most affected by adoption—children, their families, and their communities—have often had little to no power to affect these portrayals. The gap between myth and reality in adoption may create challenges for those who are impacted by actions outside of their agency, voice, and control….

More at the site.