Shirley Chung was only twelve months when she was taken in by a American couple back in 1966.
Hailing from South Korea, her biological father served of the American military, who returned home shortly after Shirley was born.
"He abandoned us, is the nicest way I can put it," states Shirley, currently in her sixties.
After around a year, Shirley was welcomed into the home of a American pair, who brought her to Texas.
An American Upbringing
Shirley grew up experiencing a lifestyle comparable with that of many young Americans.
"I moved and breathed and got in trouble like many American teenagers of the 80s. I belong of the 80s," Shirley recalls.
Shirley had children, entered matrimony and worked as a music instructor.
Her life progressed for many years with no reason to question her American identity.
However in 2012, her life was turned upside down.
Citizenship Crisis
She lost her government identification and needed a replacement.
But when she visited her local Social Security office, Shirley was informed she had to demonstrate her legal standing in the country.
"I had an emotional collapse upon discovering I lacked citizenship," she says.
Widespread Problem
This situation isn't unique. Approximations of how many US adopted individuals lack citizenship range from 18,000 to 75,000.
Dozens adopted individuals have been deported to their countries of birth in the past decade, according to adoptee rights organizations.
Another Story
Another woman, preferring to remain unnamed for concern about attracting the attention of government officials, was taken in by an American couple from the Middle East in 1973 when she was just a toddler.
"I adapted to my existence, consistently believing that I was an American citizen. That was what I learned. I still believe that today," she states.
Historical Context
Over many years, international adoptions approved by courts and government agencies did not automatically guarantee US citizenship.
The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 made some headway in addressing this issue, providing immediate citizenship to children adopted from abroad.
Present Concerns
These concerns for adoptees and their families have increased substantially following recent political changes.
Advocacy organizations say they have been flooded with assistance inquiries and certain individuals have disappeared from public view.
"Following political outcomes came in, it started to really cascade with requests for help," noted an attorney specializing in adoption law.
Stateless Feeling
"At the end of the day, they don't care about your back story. They're not interested that your presence is lawful and it's merely documentation issues," she expressed.
"I frequently explain this one single piece of paper has essentially just ruined my life," she said.
"From my perspective right now, I feel without a country."
Potential Solution
Although these individuals being in legal uncertainty for many years, legal experts believe it is just a case of political will that should unite people from across the political spectrum.
"It should be a straightforward fix: children through adoption should be equal to their biological siblings of guardians who were American nationals at the time of birth," said an attorney.
Last Appeal
Shirley wishes she could get the US president for a discussion, so she and others like her could share their experiences.
"I would request to show understanding. We're not illegal aliens," she said.
"We were placed on planes as little itty-bitty babies. Please listen to our story and please follow through with the commitment that America gave each one of the children that were brought here: American citizenship."
