In some cases, there are already others adopted from the same source who can provide information to a new searcher. Some of the already established groups include Cole babies, Hicks babies, Bessie babies, Dr. Mary babies, Butterbox babies, and Springer babies.

Black market adoptees should use all established methods for obtaining information, but cannot take anything for granted as details were so often changed, deleted, or missing altogether. They should be aware that documents such as birth certificates and consent forms were also often falsified. Black market adoptees can and do have successful searches, but the searches are more difficult because of the lack of reliable information and therefore, may take longer.

The first place any adoptee should register is with the International Soundex Reunion Registry (www.isrr.net). Support groups can also play a large roll in helping black market adoptees who are searching, by providing them with access to information, support, and search tips. The internet is also a wonderful tool for sharing information. Adoptees should also attempt to register with as many free online registries as they can, keeping records of where they have posted in case they move or change their e-mail address.

Unfortunately, black market adoptions still continue to this day. Couples are waiting too long to conceive naturally. There are many thousands of foreign orphans available for adoption and our society no longer carries the social stigma of adopting a baby of a different race or ethnic background. Our government has a system devoted to foster care rather than the permanent placement of orphans. Don’t you think that all these factors keep black market baby sellers in business? The sale of babies for profit is both immoral and illegal.

Will educating the public put an end to black market adoptions? Are black market adoptions continuing to leave another generation with years of emptiness, lack of identity, and fruitless searches?