Adoption and race: implementing the Multiethnic Placement Act and the Interethnic Adoption Provisions

Passage of the Multiethnic Placement Act of 1994 (MEPA) and the 1996 provisions on Removal of Barriers to Interethnic Adoption (Interethnic Adoption Provisions) provides an ideal opportunity to examine what can be done to increase adoptions of foster children, particularly children of color. To assist states and child welfare professionals in serving children better and meeting legal obligations, this article discusses racial matching, MEPA, and the Interethnic Adoption Provisions. Implications for practice and challenges in implementing the law also are discussed. The article suggests principles for adoption practice, recruitment, and placement that provide a framework for simultaneously meeting the requirements of the law and serving the best interests of children. Recommendations for practice, policy, and research are offered.