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Julius Tennon, Genesis Tennon and Viola Davis walk the runway during L'Oreal Paris - Walk Your Worth" Show as part of Paris Fashion Week
Viola Davis adopted her daughter, Genesis, in 2011, and she told InStyle that being a mother is so much more than carrying a child and giving birth.
"Becoming a mother has opened up my whole life and given me a whole new purpose. I feel like a star at home only because she loves me so much. It's wonderful!" (sourced from HuffPost)
"I always tell Genesis she was born from my heart, not my belly. There are so many ways to [be a] mother rather than to carry a child in your body. So many children need parents, and so many of us want to mother. Know that you will experience motherhood to the full extent." (sourced from PEOPLE)
"As a mom, you begin to see your own shortcomings, that part in your life where your child becomes a mirror to your unfinished work." (taken from EBONY's May Cover Story in conversation with Keisha Lance Bottoms)
"I empower [Genesis] to understand that she has to count it all as joy. Even her mistakes, her failures, her triumphs, what she looks like, all of it. That’s all a part of her loving herself, even if none of those things change.” (sourced from Yahoo)
Scroll through to learn which of your favorite celebrities are adopted
Jamie Foxx - Actor & Singer
The actor was adopted by his maternal grandmother after his parents split when he was just seven months old. He grew up in Terrell, Texas, and can trace his acting and singing career all the way back to singing in his local church choir.
Colin Kaepernick - NFL Player
The former San Francisco 49ers quarterback was raised by adoptive parents Rick and Teresa Kaepernick after being adopted in 1987 at five weeks old. He was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and his birth mother, Heidi Russo, was only 19 years old at the time.
Simone Biles - Gymnist
At the age of three, Simone Biles and her sister, Adria, were placed in the foster care system. "Growing up, my biological mom was suffering from drug and alcohol abuse and she was in and out of jail," Biles said on Dancing With the Stars. Shortly after Biles entered foster care, her maternal grandparents stepped in. Ron and Nellie Biles brought Simone and Adria to live with them in Texas and in 2003 they legally adopted their grandchildren.
Nelson Mandela - Humanitarian
Nelson Mandela was only 12 years old when his father passed away from lung disease. Afterward, as a tribute to his father, Mandela was adopted by Chief Jongintaba Dalindyebo, the leader of the Thembu people. He moved from his small village to the Chief's residence in the capital, where he received his education.
Ice-T - Rapper
Born Tracey Lauren Marrow, Ice-T was eight years old when his mother passed away and 12 years old when his father suffered a fatal heart attack. Afterwards, he moved to Los Angeles to live with his aunt, who later legally adopted him.
Keegan-Michael Key - Comedian
Keegan-Michael Key grew up in Detroit, Michigan, after being adopted at birth. His adopted parents divorced when he was young and his father later remarried. The comedian was 25 years old when he met his birth mother for the first time.
Content pulled from Maggie Maloney of Maire Claire.
Considering Adoption? Here's What to Do Next:
Adoption is a deeply rewarding journey that transforms lives and creates families. If you're contemplating adoption, here are some essential steps to guide you through the process:
Research and Education: Start by learning about the different types of adoption, including domestic, international, and foster care adoption. Understand the legal requirements, financial implications, and emotional aspects associated with each option. Resources such as books, online forums, and adoption agencies can provide valuable insights.
Self-Assessment: Reflect on your motivations, values, and expectations regarding adoption. Consider factors such as your readiness to parent, your desired age range of the child, and your openness to various backgrounds and circumstances. Assess your support system, including family, friends, and community resources.
Attend Information Sessions: Many adoption agencies and organizations offer informational sessions or seminars for prospective adoptive parents. Attend these events to gain a better understanding of the adoption process, ask questions, and connect with adoption professionals and other adoptive families.
Choose an Adoption Path: Based on your research and preferences, decide which adoption path aligns best with your goals and circumstances. Determine whether you're interested in domestic or international adoption, private or agency-assisted adoption, or foster care adoption. Each path has its unique requirements and considerations.
Select an Adoption Professional: Once you've chosen an adoption path, select a reputable adoption agency or attorney to guide you through the process. Research multiple agencies, read reviews, and interview adoption professionals to find the right fit for your needs. Ensure that the agency is licensed, experienced, and ethical.
Embarking on the adoption journey requires careful consideration, preparation, and commitment, but the rewards of building a family through adoption are immeasurable. Take the first step with confidence, knowing that you're embarking on a transformative and fulfilling path towards parenthood.
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