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 and as of October 2023, 2,600 Alaskan children were living in out-of-home care; and
WHEREAS, despite desire and genuine efforts, it is not always possible to return children to their homes, and these children need the security, encouragement, and cultural continuity that only a permanent adoptive or guardianship family can offer; and
WHEREAS, adoption and guardianship can provide a healthy home life with parental love, nurturing, and the security and stability of a permanent home – 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 or guardianship, and we encourage Alaskans to consider providing a safe haven for children through foster care, adoption, or guardianship.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim November 18, 2023 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.
Dated: November 18, 2023
