Events
Oral PhD Defense: Nasreen S. Fynewever
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Virtual
Adoptee Identity Affirmation in US K12 Schools
Advisors: Peter Demerath and Nathaniel Stewart
Abstract:
This dissertation explores how schools contribute to the displacement experienced by adoptees, particularly transnational, transracial, and transethnic adoptees, by perpetuating disconnection from their first families, cultures, and racial identities. Through qualitative analysis of adult adoptee experiences, it identifies key areas where schools reinforce this displacement—curriculum, environment, staff awareness, and a lack of identity affirmation—while advocating for culturally responsive, adoptee-affirming practices. The study calls for educational reform that addresses epistemic injustice and ambiguous loss, with the goal of creating spaces where adoptees’ identities are fully recognized and supported.
Photographs taken at the event may be used in University of Minnesota print and online publications, promotions, or shared with the CEHD community.
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The University of Minnesota campuses were built on the traditional homelands of the Dakota and Ojibwe, and scores of other Indigenous peoples who have walked on these lands from time immemorial. It is important to acknowledge the peoples on whose land we live, learn, and work as we seek to improve and strengthen our relations with our tribal nations. We also acknowledge that words are not enough. We must ensure that our institution provides support, resources, and programs that increase access to all aspects of higher education for our American Indian students, staff, faculty, and community members.