In this resource, HRC provides guidance and resources to child welfare agencies for creating LGBTQ+ inclusive and affirming internal and external messaging including inclusive agency forms, websites, and printed materials.
In many instances, completing an intake form, application, or other type of paperwork may be among a client’s first contacts with an agency. For this reason, ensuring that all agency-controlled forms and documents use LGBTQ+ inclusive language is an essential part of creating a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ youth and parents.
If necessary, agencies can first prioritize those documents that are completed by clients and then shift focus to internal-facing documents. The review should look for language rooted in “heterocentrism” or “cissexism” – the assumption that someone is straight/heterosexual and cisgender (not transgender). Language rooted in these assumptions renders the LGBTQ+ community invisible. Instead, making minor changes to forms can ensure all youth and parents feel seen and welcomed as part of the community your agency serves.
Avoid using heterocentric language like the narrow options of “mother” and “father” when discussing families and relationship status. Instead, options such as “applicant 1” and “applicant 2” or “parent 1” and “parent 2,” create room for all types of families and relationships.
Provide an opportunity for individuals to indicate if the name they go by is different than their legal name. For example, if legal name is needed, a form can ask for “Legal name” as well as “Preferred name.”
Male
Female
Other gender (__________)
All agency forms should be reviewed including: applications, sign-in sheets and homestudy paperwork, etc. If your agency serves youth in care, be sure to review forms related to youth as well.
If needed changes are identified, HRC has model language for your agency to reference.
Request the changes be made by the appropriate institution
Make sure agency staff members are prepared to acknowledge to clients that the language that is not inclusive, and re-affirm your agency’s commitment to welcoming LGBTQ+ clients.
Adoption STAR, Amherst, NY, "Adoptive Family Intake Form"
Amara, Seattle, WA, "Application to Adopt"
Family Builders, Oakland & San Francisco, CA, "Application Form for Foster Adoptive Parents"
Inclusive language in agency forms required of clients reflects all potential applicants and contributes to an agency’s welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ clients.
At the simplest level, applications and forms should not divide applicants into the categories of “mother” and “father.” A best practice of inclusion in forms is to, instead, refer to “applicant 1” and “applicant 2” or “parent 1” and “parent 2.” These considerations should be made for all forms, including: applications, sign-in sheets and homestudy paperwork.
LGBTQ+ prospective parents are likely to conduct initial research to learn whether an organization might welcome them as adoptive or foster parents. To communicate an LGBTQ+ inclusive environment, agencies should review all visual and written materials representing their work, for opportunities to reflect and specifically address LGBTQ+-headed families. External documents must also explicitly reflect the agency’s commitment to working with LGBTQ+ individuals and families.
It’s imperative that all trainers be skilled in creating a safe and affirming atmosphere for LGBTQ+ prospective parents and discuss content specific to LGBTQ+ youth in care.
Family photos on websites include LGBTQ+ family photos.
Nondiscrimination policy is inclusive and posted on agency website.
All printed/web content reflects inclusive language.
Collaboration with LGBTQ+ leaders and/or organization as recruitment partners.
Includes LGBTQ+ adoptive families as recruitment partners.
Adoptions Together, Silver Spring, MD, "LGBT Adoption"
Website section that includes information on the organization's welcoming history as well as frequently asked questions on LGBT adoption.
The Home for Little Wanderers, Boston, MA, "Success Stories"
Features a story on the main page of the website about a single gay father and his adopted 10-year-old son.
The National Adoption Center, Philadelphia, PA, "The Facts about LGBT Adoption"
Includes information about the center’s welcoming approach and new initiatives to connect LGBT prospective parents with welcoming agencies in the Delaware Valley.
Adoptions From The Heart, Wynnewood, PA, "Love Makes A Family” Flyer
This flyer features a two-mom family and information on how to learn more about infant adoption.
EMQ FamiliesFirst, Campbell, CA, "Every Child Deserves A Forever Home" Flyer
Features an image of two gay fathers with a child to illustrate that LGBTQ+ parents are welcomed to become forever families for children in California foster care who are waiting to be adopted.
Five Acres Adoptive/Foster Family Agency, El Monte, CA, "Looking for Caring Resource Parents..." Flyer
Outreach flyer that includes information on classes offered to prospective foster and/or adoptive parents, making it clear that agency is "all inclusive" with "open arms to qualified people without discrimination of age, gender, sexual orientation, religion or ancestry."
Forever Families Through Adoption Inc., Rye Brook, NY, "Forever Families Through Adoption (FFTA)" Brochure
Features non-discriminatory policies, including the commitment to treating all people with respect and compassion, regardless of gender identity and sexual orientation.
Little City Foundation, Chicago, IL, "Loving Parents Wanted" Flyer
Outreach flyer stating Little City Foundation's commitment to recruiting loving parents regardless of sexual orientation, gender identification, or gender expression.
Los Angeles County Department of Children & Family Services, Pasadena, CA, "Become a Foster or Adoptive Mother" Outreach Material
Features an image of two foster/adoptive mothers and their daughter as well as a statement that Los Angeles County Department of Children & Family Services is reaching out to the Lesbian community to encourage family building through fostering and adoption.
The National Adoption Center, Philadelphia, PA, "A Guide to LGBT Adoption" [PDF]
Includes information on the National Adoption Center's initiative for the LGBT community and answers to frequently asked questions related to LGBT adoption
Project Patchwork, Inc., St. Petersburg, FL, "Family" Flyer
Outreach flyer including information on Project Patchwork's commitment to serving the LGBTQ+ community in Florida, featuring an image of two fathers and their children.