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An Adoptive Parent Writes:

My husband and I are the adoptive parents to 9 children, and six of them are African American. My husband grew up in the United States (white suburbs), I grew up all over Africa. (missionary parents). My question is this...Please give me concrete suggestions on how to integrate the African American culture into my children's lives in a natural way that will not feel contrived or forced to them.

 

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John Raible Answers:

The most natural way to integrate any culture, African American or otherwise, is to mingle with the people from that culture. If your objective is for your children to grow up appreciating African American culture, they will most likely take their cues from you.

Our children pay close attention to what we parents do, more than what we say. When they see you interacting with African Americans, that teaches them that you are comfortable around black people, and that you value interracial friendships. When they observe you taking time out of busy family schedules to attend events in the black community, they will absorb the implicit message that these events are important and valuable.

To put it as simply as I know how, culture is what people do, not just the artifacts they make. So, along with black books, dolls, games, and Kwanzaa items, surround your family with real live African Americans. That way,your whole family can enjoy the beauty and strength of black culture.

Incidentally, as an interracial family, your efforts to create an integrated lifestyle will necessarily feel a bit contrived. But that's no reason to stop you from trying! The comfort and education of your kids are worth it.

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