Sociology Q:

The issues of g-a-y adoption is a timely and relevant sociological phenomena. Many g-a-y men and women, in couples and not, are raising children in America. It is estimated that approximately three million children are being raised in homes with g-a-y parents. Many of them are raised by their biological parents, but many are adopted. Despite the inconsistent adoption laws throughout the country, this trend does not seem to be slowing. In addition to the unequal parenting and marriage laws that still exist, g-a-y parents face discrimination on a number of levels.

The film Daddy & Papa chronicles the lives of some of these families. Although you can not view the entire film online, you can view five clips from the film http://www.daddyandpapa.com/  where you can also read an overview of the film. Additionally, please visit http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/daddyandpapa/families.html  to read biographies & quotes from the families that are featured in the film. As you are reviewing this information and the film clips pay close attention to issues of gender, race & sexuality as they are experienced by the parents and children in the film.

Consider the following questions for your discussion:

What are some of the specific challenges that g-a-y parents face? How does the sexual orientation of parents impact the socialization experiences of children? How do g-a-y parents deal with the additional challenges of inter-racial adoption? How are the experiences of these families a reflection of some of the concepts of gender or racial discrimination and heterosexism? How can society more effectively support these families?