August 9 — “Found in China”
This documentary, about the many Chinese children adopted by Americans since the early 1990s, is sure to find an appreciative audience at the always socially conscious Earth House.
Summary: “Since the early ’90s, Americans have adopted nearly 70,000 Chinese children. With thousands of them now at an age to appreciate returning to the homeland, heritage tours have brought adoptees and their families to China, presenting an unequaled opportunity for bonding and sharing identity issues. “Found in China” follows six Midwestern families as they observe contemporary trends and ancient Asian traditions in both urban and rural contexts. The 80-minute documentary focuses on the 9- to 13-year-old girls and how they attempt to fit together the puzzle pieces of their pasts.”
When: 5 pm (it’s 82 minutes long)
Where: Earth House at Lockerbie Central United Methodist Church, 237 North East Street
Part of IndyFringe and the Indianapolis International Film Festival.
Why does Provocate think you should attend this event?
International adoptions are another important way that Central Indiana is connecting with the world. Most of the parents seem to be working hard to provide their children with an understanding and appreciation of their home cultures, which means the parents themselves are becoming experts on China, Ethiopia, and other countries. This is glocalization in practice.
If you think this sounds interesting, be sure to check out …
You’ll have a chance to see all kinds of Hoosier kids (adopted and not) soaking up Chinese culture this autumn. The Indianapolis Art Center features Chinese family events August 3 and August 17, and will have kids show off their music and martial arts skills August 13. You will surely have a chance to meet Girl Scout Troop 42, consisting of girls adopted from China, at the International Festival November 20-23. For a different cross-cultural perspective on orphans, see the French film “The Chorus” on August 19.
For more information …
If you want to learn more about Chinese adoptions in Indiana, start with Familes from China — Indiana. A well regard book (written by a father, which makes it nearly unique): China Ghosts: My Daughter’s Journey to America, My Passage to Fatherhood by Jeff Gammage.
