The Trump administration’s visa freeze has disrupted international adoptions, leaving hundreds of U.S. families, including the Macchionis from Rhode Island, in uncertainty. The freeze, issued in mid-January, halted immigrant visa processing for 75 countries—Colombia among them—just days before Grace and Dave Macchioni were to reunite with their 14-year-old adoptive daughter, Zuli. Their flights and plans were canceled overnight, despite more than a year of meticulous preparation.
Adoption Community Mobilizes Amid Sudden Freeze
Families and agencies were stunned to learn that, unlike previous visa suspensions, this one did not include a categorical exemption for adoption. Parents flooded social media, wrote letters, and contacted lawmakers. Their efforts led to bipartisan support from the Congressional Coalition on Adoption, which urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio to reinstate the exemption or clarify how case-by-case exceptions would be handled.
White House Offers Case-by-Case Exceptions
On January 28, the White House responded with guidance stating that intercountry adoptions qualify for National Interest Exceptions. While this allows consular officers to issue visas on a priority, individual basis, many in the adoption community say it leaves too much ambiguity. Agencies like Lifeline Children’s Services welcomed the news but still called for a blanket exemption to protect vulnerable children from indefinite delays.
Families Grapple with Emotional and Financial Fallout
Prospective parents like Christine Deason of Kentucky, who has waited over two years to adopt a 7-year-old from Thailand, voiced frustration over the policy. She emphasized that adoptive parents must already meet strict financial standards. Many have made significant sacrifices and now face more uncertainty. Similarly, the Doweys of South Carolina, who finalized the adoption of their daughter Grace from Haiti, feel betrayed by the U.S. government’s unexpected delay at the final step.
Hope Persists Despite Lingering Questions
Back in Rhode Island, Grace Macchioni remains optimistic, buoyed by news of possible visa exceptions. She and Zuli spoke recently, and she reassured the teen that they would be together soon. Still, until clear and consistent visa processing resumes, many families remain stuck in limbo, holding onto faith, patience, and packed suitcases.
Source:
Trump’s Visa Suspension Leaves Adoptive Families in Limbo
Photo by Austin Lowman on Unsplash
About Post Author
