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Hello Also-Known-As community,
In recent weeks, we’ve seen an increase in enforcement news, tragedies and specifically heightened conversation around adoption documentation and the very real impacts this has on adoptees and families. As always, we want to acknowledge that every adoption story is different and shaped by time, country, policy, and circumstance – yet many of us are feeling shared uncertainty, grief, or urgency in this moment.
We are actively working to carve space while also gathering and sharing high-level resources from trusted adoptee-led organizations such as Adoptees for Justice (A4J), Alliance for Adoptees and Families (AAF), and Adoptees United. Please join us for upcoming community calls, events and resource-sharing opportunities as we continue to navigate this together.
As the Year of the Snake comes to a close, I’ve personally been reflecting on what it means to shed: old expectations, outdated narratives and layers that no longer serve us across different facets of life. I’ve been trying to find solace in moments of hibernation, trusting that this quiet work of rest and release is not stagnation, but preparation for expansiveness.
As we welcome the Year of the Horse this month, my hope is that this shedding allows for renewed momentum, courage and forward motion. Hoping that we can all gallop into the unknown together with curiosity, connectivity, and support facilitated by the strength of this community. 🐎
With care and compassion,
Lindsay Geier 涂婷
Join us as we gather around the table to welcome another lunar cycle during peak soup season. We’ll share a warming meal, celebrate new beginnings, and connect with fellow adoptees in a space rooted in cross-culture, comfort, and community. Come for the soup, the stories, the company—or all of the above.
We have spots for 25 people (or more); please let us know ASAP if you need to cancel your registration.
When: Sat, Feb 7; 11:30 am to 3 pm
Where: Spring Shabu Shabu (136-20 38th Ave, 2nd fl, Flushing, Queens)
Who: Adoptees & friends
Cost: Pay your way for food & drinks (set buffet price; add-ons available)
Open forum discussion for LGBTQIA+ adoptees. We’ll be making Valentine’s to ourselves or friends in the room. Light refreshments will be provided.
When: Tuesday, Feb 10; 6-8 pm
Where: Sapientia Initiative (115 W 27 St, 6th-floor big studio)
Who: Adoptees only
Cost: “Pay as you wish”
As conversations around citizenship and immigration enforcement surface complex emotions within adoptee communities, this will be a virtual safe space to come together in care and solidarity. This call is not intended to provide legal advice, but to acknowledge the emotional weight many adoptees are carrying and to share reflection and support. Facilitated by Alisha Bennett (LCSW) and CS Wright (Adoptees United).
When: Monday, Feb 23; 7-8:30 pm
Where: Virtual event
Who: Adoptees only
Cost: Free to attend
Join us for a milestone weekend this spring, packed with panels, fun activities, social events, and expert speakers. Let’s celebrate three decades of community, amplifying adoptee voices, and creating spaces where internationally and transracially adopted people can feel truly seen, heard, and valued. Together!
Find out what’s in store. 📆 👀
When: April 16 to 19, 2026
Where: Events throughout NYC!
Who: Community & friends
The 2026 Also-Known-As Adoptee Excellence Scholarship is now live! This spring, one individual will be awarded a $1,000 scholarship to support their full-time study at an accredited institution.
🎓 International adoptees are invited to apply if they are U.S. citizens; age 25 or under; and plan to enroll full-time in 2026 at an accredited college, university or vocational-technical school in the United States.
🎓 Financial need and merit will be considered; scholarship will be awarded in June 2026.
🎓 For more information, FAQs, and to apply, visit alsoknownas.org/scholarships.
Are you an adoptee business owner, crafter, or maker of something else great? We’re inviting vendors in the community to be part of our first-ever Adoptee Makers’ Market! 🛍️
Bringing together adoptee artists, food and drink purveyors, and more for a one-day shoppable event this spring (date TBC), we’d love to consider showcasing your small business, art/crafts for sale, or other offering.
If you’re interested in sharing your work or products with our community in person during the event, email a quick description of your offering (with links if available) to kodonnell@alsoknownas.org and scraynededrick@alsoknownas.org.
If you’ve already reached out, great! We’ll be in touch soon.
Copyright © 2026 Also-Known-As, Inc, All rights reserved.