"We have only ourselves. And when I'm thinking about that, I'm thinking how strong we are. Because we have survived and still live and still create and still talk about our history." -- Kâlánguak Absalonsen

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, I had the privilege of speaking with Kâlánguak Absalonsen, an adopted person from Greenland living in Denmark. Kâlánguak shared her unique perspective on adoption, colonization, and the challenges faced by Inuit people in Denmark. She highlighted the impact of colonization on adoption practices and the struggle to maintain cultural identity in a foreign environment.

Kâlánguak’s personal journey of self-discovery and reconnecting with her Inuit roots was both inspiring and heartbreaking. She emphasized the importance of giving voice to marginalized communities, like Inuit adoptees, and the strength it takes to navigate the complexities of adoption without the support of family.

Through her blog, book, and advocacy work, Kâlánguak is shedding light on the experiences of Inuit adoptees and challenging the narratives imposed on them by society. Her resilience and determination to reclaim her identity serve as a powerful reminder of the strength within adoptees.

As the host, I was deeply moved by Kâlánguak’s story and her courage to speak out. I encourage listeners to visit her website, read her book, and support her efforts to amplify the voices of Inuit adoptees. Let's continue to spread awareness and understanding of adoption's complexities and support adoptees in their journey of self-discovery and healing.

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RESOURCES:

Kâlánguak’s contact information:

• Discovery Kâlánguak’s website (in English and Danish): https://www.kalanguak.dk/

• Connect with Kâlánguak on Facebook and find her blog posts (translatable on Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/karen.k.andersen.94

• Here’s her beadwork on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perlebroderisten/

• Check out Kâlánguak‘s beading handiwork in a video: https://youtu.be/NOGJbrMJENY

• And here’s the cover of her beautiful book (in Danish) called Lille: 

Other Resources:

• APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption’s Challenges: http://UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude

• Other Parents Like Me - http://oplm.com

• Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/

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Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson

Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao

Email questions or comments to [email protected]

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Time Stamps:

00:00:00 - Introduction to Kâlánguak and adoption in Denmark 00:01:32 - History Lesson on Greenland and Denmark 00:04:04 - Kâlánguak's Adoption Story 00:08:18 - Challenges Faced Growing Up in Denmark 00:11:04 - Learning Style Differences 00:13:35 - Transition to Adulthood and Career Path 00:15:56 - Discovering Learning Disability 00:19:36 - Estrangement from Adoptive Parents 00:22:08 - Impact of Colonization on Identity 00:24:34 - The Impact of Adoption on Kâlánguak's Life 00:26:37 - Advocacy for Inuit People and Adoptees 00:30:26 - Strength and Resilience of Adoptees