Shirley Chung was just a year old when she was adopted by a US family back in 1966.
Born in the Korean peninsula, her biological father served of the US armed forces, who returned home soon after Shirley was born.
"He left us behind, is the kindest phrasing I can express it," states Shirley, currently in her sixties.
Approximately one year later, Shirley was adopted by a American pair, who took her back to Texas.
Growing Up American
Shirley grew up experiencing a lifestyle similar to those of most American youths.
"I lived and breathed and got in trouble like many teenage Americans of the 80s. I belong of the 80s," Shirley says.
She became a mother, got married and became a piano teacher.
Her life progressed for many years with no reason to question her US citizenship.
However in 2012, her world came crashing down.
Citizenship Crisis
She lost her government identification and needed a replacement.
However when she went to her government agency, Shirley was informed she had to demonstrate her status in the country.
"I had an emotional collapse after finding out I wasn't a citizen," she says.
A Common Issue
Shirley is not alone. Approximations of how many US adopted individuals are without citizenship vary between thousands to tens of thousands.
Numerous adopted individuals have been removed to their nations of origin in recent years, according to advocacy groups.
Additional Account
Another woman, preferring to remain unnamed for fear of drawing notice of authorities, was taken in by an US pair from the Middle East in 1973 when she was just a toddler.
"I adapted to my existence, always understanding that I was a US national. That was what I learned. I continue to feel that today," she says.
Historical Context
For decades, intercountry adoptions approved by courts and government agencies did not automatically guarantee US citizenship.
The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 created progress in rectifying this, providing immediate citizenship to international adoptees.
Current Fears
These concerns for adopted individuals and their families have increased substantially following shifts in administration.
Advocacy organizations say they have been overwhelmed by requests for help and certain individuals have disappeared from public view.
"Following political outcomes were announced, it started to really cascade with pleas for assistance," noted a legal professional working with adoptee cases.
Lacking National Identity
"At the end of the day, they don't care about your personal history. They're not interested that you're legally here and it's just a paperwork error," she expressed.
"I frequently explain that one document of paper has essentially just ruined my life," she stated.
"From my perspective currently, I feel stateless."
Potential Solution
Despite adoptees being in legal uncertainty for decades, legal experts believe it is just a case of legislative action that should unite people from across the political spectrum.
"It should be an uncomplicated solution: children through adoption should be equal to their natural brothers and sisters of parents who were US citizens at the time of birth," commented a legal advocate.
Last Appeal
Shirley wishes she could meet with national leaders for a discussion, so she and others like her could explain their stories.
"I would ask him to show understanding. We're not illegal aliens," she said.
"We were placed on planes as little itty-bitty babies. Just please hear our story and honor with the promise that America made to every of the babies that were brought here: US nationality."
