June 25, 2024

EP 23: Rejection to Reclamation: Patrick's Transracial Adoption Journey

1 hour 23 minutes

Identity is not a destination but a journey, especially for transracial adoptees. In this Episode we are diving into the conversation around transracial and transcultural adoption. I am honored to host Patrick Samuel Young Armstrong, a multifaceted individual, a podcaster, speaker, creator and a new father. Patrick's journey as a Korean-American, transracial and transcultural adoptee is a profound exploration of identity and acceptance. From a childhood marked by rejection to a transformative awakening at 30, Patrick's story is one of reclaiming and embracing his heritage and humanity all while fostering community within the adoptee and Asian American realms. Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Patrick.

Shownotes:

Patrick’s first childhood memory

The circumstances surrounding his birth in Korea, and the subsequent adoption to Indiana at just three months old

Patrick shares his recent efforts to connect with his birth mother and the unexpected developments in that search, shedding light on the emotional and personal challenges of tracing his roots

The unexpected news from the adoptive agency and what followed.

Why Partick wrote 40 letters to his birth mom.

What happens when the protective layers we've built are stripped away, revealing an emotional void? Patrick discusses the tension between control and agency on the adoption journey

The complex emotions of becoming a father for the first time. Reflecting on seeing his DNA in his child

The tools and coping mechanisms that have been essential in navigating these life changes, including the crucial role of therapy

Patrick shares about his first 30 years of navigating life as an Asian American adoptee in a predominantly white community. Growing up in a colorblind household, experiences of subtle and overt racism were often minimized or dismissed by family members, leading to internalized rejection of identity.

The profound impact of rejection, particularly in the context of adoption, and how it shapes personal identity and emotional well-being. We reflect on the lack of historical research on adoption and the misconception that adopted children will seamlessly integrate into their new families.

Patrick’s turning point triggered by a scene in the movie "Always Be My Maybe"

Patrick shares about his journey of self-discovery and embracing his heritage and identity.

The multifaceted nature of the foster care system ranging from loving homes to systemic issues that undermine the foster kids experience.

The emotional and transformative journey of personal growth and mutual support between Patrick and his adoptive mother.

Connect with Patrick!

Instagram: @patrickintheworld

Podcasts:

The Janchi show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-janchi-show/id1529913015

Conversation Piece: https://www.conversationpiecepod.com/

Check Other

Studies:

“Too Korean to be white and too white to be Korean” :

https://www.holtinternational.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Too-Korean-to-be-White.pdf

The adoptee consciousness model:

https://intercountryadopteevoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/adoptee-consciousness-model.pdf

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Contact:

Email: [email protected]

Music by Mathias Kunzli www.mathiaskunzli.com