WHEREAS, Alaska’s children are our future, and every child deserves to experience the security and love of a stable home; and
WHEREAS, on an average day, thousands of Alaskan children are unable to remain safely in their homes; as of October 2020, 2,589 children were living in out-of-home care; and
WHEREAS, it is not always possible, despite desire and genuine effort, to return children to their homes, and they need the security, encouragement, and cultural continuity that only a permanent adoptive family can offer; and
WHEREAS, adoption can provide a healthy home life with parental love, nurturing, and security that children would otherwise not have, as well as the stability of a permanent place to live – a “forever” family; and
WHEREAS, strong families are the heart of our communities and the backbone of our achievements, and children waiting for adoptive families need our love and support; and
WHEREAS, with deep gratitude, we recognize the families who have opened their hearts and homes to give children in need a second chance through adoption, and encourage Alaskans to consider providing a safe haven for children through foster care or adoption.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim November 21, 2020 as:
Adoption Day
in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to honor adoptive parents and Alaska’s children, and to support community and State efforts to provide all children with secure, nurturing, and permanent families.
