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MC’s Solberg writes of experiences with
transracial adoption Release Date:
January 9, 2008
 MONMOUTH,
Ill. — Erika
Solberg, a lecturer in the English department at Monmouth College, is
the author of an article in the January/February issue of Adoptive
Families magazine. It is included in a special report on raising
African-American children.
Solberg and her husband, English department chair Rob Hale, have two
adopted children, ages four and three. Her article, "Braiding Barbara’s
Hair," is about the older child.
Solberg writes, "During our initial exploration of adoption, my
husband and I read ‘Inside Transracial Adoption.’ The significance of
black hair care is not obvious to most whites, and the book’s authors
make it clear … (They write) ‘There is no tolerance in the black
community for not taking care of a child’s hair.’"
Although that statement intimidated Solberg, it has also inspired her
to do the best she possibly can at her new styling responsibilities.
"Every day, I fuss with Barbara’s hair," she writes, describing its
color as "deep black, like the velvet edges of a butterfly’s wings."
"I do it because a well-kempt head indicates love; but also because
teaching Barbara pride in her hair helps her feel connected to, and
proud of, her racial identity."
Solberg admits she has a long way to go, especially as Barbara’s
ideas for her hair –
her latest is the addition of pink beads
– become more
complex.
"Many hairs escape, fuzzing the braid, revealing my lack of skill.
But when I look at all of her –
at this long-limbed, big-bellied girl, singing in my living room
– I know she will
group up feeling my love for her twist and turn through my clumsy,
weaving fingers."
Adoptive Families is the leading adoption information source for
families before, during and after adoption. More information, as well as
the full text of Solberg’s article, is available at
www.adoptivefamilies.com.
Released
by the Office of College Communications
Barry McNamara, Associate Director of College Communications
Phone: 309-457-2117
Fax: 309-457-2330
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