An independent voice for ethical adoption
Ethica’s Call to Action on the Mercy James Case
Ethica believes that intercountry adoption is a viable option for orphans around the world if the following steps are taken:
1. The child is a true orphan with no family (including appropriate
extended family)
2. The child cannot find appropriate, permanent, in-country care in a
family-like setting
3. There is an established system for intercountry adoption in the
country of origin
Ethica has no first hand knowledge of the specifics of the Mercy James case, but we are concerned for this child who seems to be on a fast-track to intercountry adoption without any regard for the three points listed above.
While we wait for the government of Malawi to decide what course of action to take with this case, we hope that they make a fair decision based upon the best interests of not only this child, but all the children in their country.
While we wait for the determination on this case we are asking for help from other supporters of ethical intercountry adoption to help this child as a sign of solidarity to all children needing assistance in poor countries. For every child that does not meet the three criteria above but that enters the world of intercountry adoption anyway, another child that meets these criteria waits without a home.
To this end we are calling to action to raise funds to assist Mercy James to be cared for within her country with her extended family of origin. The annual average salary in Malawi is $160.00. If we provide those funds for the care of Mercy James for the next 14 years, we believe not only could she stay with her family, but she should
also be able to be educated within her own country. Therefore we are challenging the adoption community to help us raise $2,240 for Mercy James.
We are establishing contact with a representative in Malawi who can administer this money on Mercy’s behalf. If Mercy is adopted internationally, we will donate the money to child welfare efforts in Malawi for the benefit of another child or children in need.
Please help us raise the funds needed to help Mercy remain in her country with her extended family…let us allow another child who is a true orphan, who needs a family, and whose country is prepared to protect their best interests through an established intercountry adoption program, find a home.
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