Mullin: Counting our Blessings

By Congressman Markwayne Mullin

This month is National Adoption Month, and November 23rd is National Adoption Day. There is no better time than now to celebrate the joy adoption brings and raise awareness of the necessity of adoption within our country.

My family is what it is today because of the blessing of adoption, and Christie and I give thanks every day for our six kids. We never planned on becoming adoptive parents, but the Lord had something beautiful in store for us.

As we gather with family and loved ones this week, our family in particular has been given an incredible opportunity to spread awareness about adoption and foster care.

Every child deserves a safe and loving home. Last year, there were 1,353 adoptions finalized in Oklahoma! However, there are nearly 8,000 children in the custody of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services. If you are interested in becoming a foster or adoptive parent, Oklahoma Fosters, a recruitment organization that partners with OKDHS, can help you.

We are grateful to those who open their hearts and homes to adoption and fostering, but also know that it isn’t for every family. Thankfully, there are other ways to help the cause, such as volunteering with Oklahoma Human Service’s “Be A Neighbor” program, becoming a Court Appointed Special Advocate, or providing temporary respite care for foster families who need it.

The Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI) has provided my family with countless ways to support and celebrate adoption. CCAI is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization that strives to help find permanent homes for millions of children in need of adoption. For example, every year they recognize Angels in Adoption, individuals who make extraordinary contributions to the cause. Amazingly, several people from the Second District have received this honor over the years.

Adoption organizations like CCAI raise awareness for the need of adoption and pave the way for more families and individuals who are seeking adoption. As we take time with our families this holiday season, I encourage you to consider those children without a permanent home. If not us, then who?


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