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November 15, 2011.
There is a specific reason for my writing this in black. Although some consider the date to be an historical one for IL adoptees born on or after 1/1/46 I consider it to be a dark one.
Chances are few birh parents will choose anonymity. But those who do will lead to their offspring being left behind while other adoptees will receive a non-certified copy of their original birth certificate (OBC) and not redacted. Why are birth parents allowed to do this since it will have been at least 21 years since relinquishment papers were signed?
It's the new IL law and I could not disagree with it more. For over 35 years I have been an advocate for ALL adoptees of legal age to receive their OBC, no strings attached.
Yes, I'm happy for those who will receive their OBC but my heart goes out to those who will receive a redacted one. I realize on the request form, there is a place to check if an adoptee does not wish to receive this type. But at least some will not be aware that a birth parent has requested anonymity. What a blow that will be to open an envelope and identifying information will have been removed. It is a shame that those who fought for the horrid bill that became law were not considerate toward the adoptees who will be less fortunate when their OBC arrives.
The dark day this month will become even darker for some.
