Identity & Intersections
Exploring the many parts of identity, family, origins, and belonging.
Our experiences of family and identity do not exist in isolation. Adoption, donor conception, unexpected DNA discoveries, family separation, search and reunion, and questions about biological origins may intersect with other parts of who we are and how we move through the world.
Sexual orientation, gender identity, race, culture, ancestry, disability, family structure, and other lived realities can influence how we experience belonging, relationships, discovery, reunion, acceptance, rejection, and connection.
These intersections do not make different experiences the same. They can, however, shape the questions we carry, the relationships we navigate, and the ways we understand ourselves and our stories.
The articles in this section explore those intersections through a trauma-aware, lived-experience-informed lens.
Explore the articles below in any order, or begin with the one that best reflects where you are today.
Articles
LGBTQ+ Identity, Family & Origins
Explore how LGBTQ+ identity may intersect with adoption, donor conception, unexpected DNA discoveries, biological origins, family relationships, and belonging.
LGBTQ+ Identity During Search & Reunion
Explore questions of disclosure, privacy, acceptance, boundaries, and belonging when searching for or building relationships with biological family.
Race, Culture & Origins
Explore how race, culture, ancestry, and biological origins can intersect with identity, family, belonging, and experiences of discovery or separation.
New articles are added regularly as the Learning Center continues to grow.