Reflections of an Adoptee: Ming Fuller’s Journey of Self-Discovery

China’s one-child policy, which severely restricted families to having only one child, officially ended in 2015. Yet, the policy had lasting impacts, notably in increased recorded cases of abandonment and adoption. Emma Ming Fuller, a 24-year-old adoptee from Mingshan District, offers a poignant example. Adopted by American parents from Los Angeles, Fuller has heartfelt gratitude for her adoptive family. Despite this, she finds herself reflecting on her origins, having left China as a child before forming any memories of it, and growing up in a largely white environment. This introspection has led her to explore her identity, memory, and sense of belonging with the encouragement of other Chinese adoptees online.

Experiencing Abandonment in China

At three months old, Ming was left in a basket outside a government building. A passerby eventually found her and, along with a note listing her birthdate, took her to the local police. Labeled as ‘abandoned,’ she spent over a year in a Mingshan orphanage before her adoption. During her stay, she shared a crib with another child and suffered from malnutrition.

Ming admits having no memory of these events, but believes they have influenced her profoundly. ‘When I started dating, I noticed attachment patterns,’ she shared with Newsweek. Therapy illuminated how her adoption had subtly impacted her struggles. Growing up, she’d held the belief that her adoption had no effect because of her loving parents. Recognizing both truths as valid has been a revelation.

Living Adopted: A Project of Exploration

Ming’s journey has inspired a new project, ‘Living Adopted,’ a video series discussing her experiences as a Chinese adoptee in the U.S. ‘I [explore] daily struggles that relate back to my adoption story,’ she explained. Sharing these thoughts on social media filled a void of connection with others. One particular video posted to Instagram, on February 17, received over 25,000 likes. In it, she described her feelings of difference within a predominantly white community and began exploring adulthood’s challenges as a Chinese adoptee.

Her series touches upon identity issues, self-love, eating struggles, and unexpected grief, alongside gratitude. These challenges are common among adoptees, each finding their own path through them.

Historical Context of Adoption in China

Implemented in 1982, China’s one-child policy aimed to curb population growth. Strict control methods included fines and forced medical procedures. Preference for male children led to increased abandonment of infant girls. Many of these children entered orphanages and some were later adopted internationally.

Ming remains curious about her history and place within this context. ‘I haven’t yet immersed myself in Chinese culture,’ she admitted. ‘I’m focused on understanding my identity. Reconnecting with my birthplace is a future endeavour.’

Her message to adoptees is of patience. ‘Unpacking your past is like sorting through a mess. It’s a hard truth, but understanding ourselves is essential to overcoming barriers. The journey can be tough, but worthwhile. It’s okay to take it at your own pace.’