February is Black History Month, though, the plight of children of color within the foster care system continues every day of every year. Statistically, black children make up about 14% of the total population of Americans under the age of 18. However, they comprise a full 23% of all children in foster care. This is a staggering disproportion. In our February post, we hope to help shine some light on helpful things to keep in mind when fostering children with color.
Having good foster parents is priceless to any child in crisis, regardless of race. Foster parents should not only be providing essentials like shelter, food, and hygiene but should also be providing a sense of familial connection and validation for the children in their care. All of these things are necessary for a child in foster care to thrive and hopefully become a healthy adult.
Through their research, the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, in conjunction with the National Archive of Criminal Justice data determined that black youth are three to five times more likely to be victims of abuse or neglect, robbery, or homicide; more than any other population group.
You may wonder how you can be a part of the solution. If you are here on our site reading this blog today, you may be a foster parent or are thinking about becoming one. First off, your willingness to serve any child in need of a home should be commended. That said, if you are fostering, or intend to foster a child of color, here are a few things you can do to cultivate a positive individual and cultural identity for them.
- Engage their cultural history
Many cities throughout the US have museums and conservatories of African-American history, highlighting not only their struggles but immense contributions to our nation. Here in the Phoenix area, we have the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center (https://gwcmccaz.wordpress.com/), which has been in operation for nearly 20 years. Contact your local museum or conservatory and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Many of these sites would even be more than happy to provide an individual guided tour to you and your child. - Bring some African-American culture into your home
If your foster child’s nationality of origin is known, display some art and literature from that place. Seek out its folk tales and music. Look up some recipes not only from that country or region but also from the vast culinary history of black America. Good food can be good medicine for the soul! - Skin and Hair Care
Yes, we’re talking about that one side of the aisle at the Walgreens. Melanin and Keratin are cells found in every person of every race. They are what determine the color of our skin, and the thickness and consistency of our hair and nails. Black children have different skin and hair care needs than those of a fairer complexion. Do some research on this, build a routine, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. www.adoptionstar.com is one of many places that have a wealth of information on this subject. If you’re a barber or a cosmetologist who would make a great resource on this topic, or know of one who would, feel free to comment below with your contact information.
It’s true, there are thousands of traumatized and neglected children of color in the foster care system who deserve a loving and safe home. Though you can’t change their past, with love and effort, you can give them not only a brighter future but a brighter today.
