Featured Speaker at the Untangling Our Roots Conference
SECOND BIENNIEL SUMMIT TO UNITE THE ADOPTION, ASSISTED REPRODUCTION,
AND NON-PATERNAL EVENT (NPE) COMMUNITIES – UNTANGLING OUR ROOTS
April 25-April 28, 2024 in Denver, Colorado
Hosted by the non-profits the National Association of Adoptees and Parents and Right to Know this multi-day conference includes 60+ speakers gathered in one place from across the U.S. and around the world who specialize in the impacts of DNA surprises, adoption, assisted reproduction, and NPEs for 3+ days of learning, entertainment, and community. These thought leaders include mental health professionals, authors, educators, podcasters, artists, tiktokers, and experts in identity, DNA, sociology, genealogy, genetics who will present innovative seminars, panel discussions, and interactive workshops to provide a wealth of opportunities to learn and connect.
Adoptees, the donor-conceived, and people with an NPE represent a diverse group of individuals from every age level, geographic region, and socio-economic, political, educational, and ethnic background. We estimate that 1 in 20 people have a misattributed parentage experience (MPE) — that’s 16.5 million Americans, plus the families they grew up in, their new genetic family, and the families they’ve built who are part of our combined communities. Regardless of how we get to the point of wanting to know our genetic identity, who we are, who we’re related to, and our medical history – once we reach this space, we have similar challenges, self-discoveries, issues, and blessings.
“A Summit bringing together the adoption, assisted reproduction, and non-paternal event communities is the fruition of a long-time dream! Forming coalitions among groups with similar challenges, impacts, and goals will hasten our success!” Leslie Pate Mackinnon, LCSW
“The Being at the conference was magical. It was a place where you could feel the love and respect and comfort all around you. But being there I realized that I’ve been craving this community for myself. This conference was the emotional and spiritual healing that I’ve always wanted but never found.” Taylor Ashley, attendee 2023
Direct-to-consumer DNA tests have unanticipated consequences—no more family secrets. Anyone can have a DNA surprise: we’re your friend, neighbor, cousin, attorney, store clerk…Join us in Denver, CO for this one-of-a-kind event because if you haven’t had a DNA surprise, you likely know someone who has. For more information or to register to attend, go to www.UntanglingOurRoots.org.
Since 2015 the National Association of Adoptees and Parents (NAAP), formerly Indiana Adoptee Network, has dedicated resources to enhancing the lives of adoptees by unifying their diverse voices. Our programming seeks to EDUCATE, ELEVATE, and EMPOWER by promoting dialogue, understanding, and healing. Through education, awareness, and connection, we are striving to establish a new adoption narrative.
RTK was founded in 2019 to support people impacted by DNA surprises and genetic identity issues through education, support, and advocacy. We promote understanding of the complex intersection of genetic information, identity, and family dynamics. It is a fundamental human right to know your genetic identity. If you need help, call 323-TALK-MPE or reach out online—you’re not alone.
Recording of Panel Discussion on Identity Following a DNA Test Surprise:
https://vimeo.com/955127175/7a0ce5234b?share=copy