As debate over the issue flares in several states, a major adoption institute
says in a new report that it strongly supports the rights of gays and lesbians
to adopt, and urges that remaining obstacles be removed.
"Laws and policies that preclude adoption by gay or lesbian parents
disadvantage the tens of thousands of children mired in the foster care system
who need permanent, loving homes," the Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute says
in the report to be issued Friday.
It advises agencies and officials to make firm statements in support of such
adoptions, forsaking a "don't ask, don't tell" approach which prompts some gays
to feel their chances of adopting hinge on being discreet about their sexual
orientation.
Adoption agencies should energetically recruit gays and lesbians, including
them in outreach programs and parenting panels, the institute said.
The report arrives on the heels of a nationwide poll by the Pew Research
Center for the People and the Press that found public approval of gay adoption
is increasing. In 1999, 57 percent of Americans opposed the practice and 38
percent approved, while the new poll found 48 percent opposed and 46 percent in
favor with a margin of error of 3 percentage points.
The divided sentiment has been reflected recently in
Massachusetts, where Catholic Charities is ending its century-old adoption
program rather than comply with a state law barring discrimination against gays.