Governor Proclaims November 22, 2025, as Adoption Day in Alaska: A Call for Community Support and Action
In a heartfelt proclamation directed towards Alaskan residents, Governor Mike Dunleavy has declared November 22, 2025, as Adoption Day in the state of Alaska. This initiative serves not only to honor adoptive parents but also to raise awareness about the critical need for stable and nurturing homes for Alaska’s children, who represent the future of the state.
The proclamation underscores the pressing challenges faced by thousands of children in Alaska. On average, a significant number of children are unable to remain in their biological homes due to various circumstances, resulting in a substantial 2,476 children residing in out-of-home care as of October 2025. The emotional and developmental ramifications of separation from a familial unit are profound, making the need for permanent solutions all the more urgent.
The proclamation highlights that in instances where reunification with birth parents is not feasible, the need for stable permanency becomes paramount. Adoption and guardianship emerge as critical avenues through which children can experience lasting familial bonds, stability, and the cultural continuity that is essential for their development. Studies consistently demonstrate that children who are adopted or placed in guardianship situations tend to fare better emotionally and psychologically, thanks in part to the love and support they receive from permanent families.
The state recognizes that strong families are the cornerstone of thriving communities. Investments in family unity not only benefit the children directly involved but also promote an overall healthier society. Adoption is not merely a legal arrangement; it is a powerful commitment that fosters resilience, security, and emotional well-being. The announcement serves as a reminder that every child deserves a stable home, encompassing not just physical shelter but also emotional security and unconditional love.
In his proclamation, Governor Dunleavy extends gratitude to those families who have opened their homes to children in need, encouraging more Alaskans to become involved. He calls upon the community to consider fostering, adopting, or supporting guardianship arrangements, as these acts not only transform the lives of children but also enrich the lives of adoptive families.
Through this declaration, the Governor aims to mobilize public support for initiatives that seek to provide every child with a nurturing and permanent family. Alaskans are invited to participate in this mission, ensuring that children awaiting adoption feel valued and loved, reinforcing the community’s commitment to safeguarding the interests and futures of its youngest members.
In conclusion, Adoption Day serves as both a celebration and a call to action—a reminder of the collective responsibility to protect and nurture Alaska’s most vulnerable children, ensuring they have access to the secure, loving families they deserve.
