This Is What It’s Like to Be a Muslim Adoptive/Foster Parent

Usman Haque

How long have you been adopting? How many children have you adopted?

We adopted our first child in March 2017, a few days after she was born.

What made you want to become an adoptive parent?

A combination of infertility as well as the desire to share our lives with a child in need of a loving family.

What has your experience been like as a Muslim adoptive parent?

The rewarding experiences are watching our baby grow and learn, as well as the love, hugs, smiles we share. Some challenges of adopting are the bureaucracy of the process, the fact that it’s overly complicated, as well as being separated from one’s spouse for multiple months while waiting for the baby and undergoing the guardianship process abroad.

What were the reactions you received from the Muslim community when you decided to adopt?

We received overwhelming love, support, and congratulations Alhamdulillah.

What are some misconceptions that you have noticed the Muslim community has about fostering and adopting?

That the adopted child carries less importance than a biological child.

What is your message to the Muslim community regarding this topic?

Open your heart to the joy of parenting however Allah (SWT) makes it happen for you. Adoption has its challenges, but they are not unbearable. Talk to people that have gone through it and learn from their mistakes as well as their successes.