An AI-image generator tool created these images when I asked it to generate a photo illustration of “Adoptee rights in Michigan.”
In early May, I asked ChatGPT to write an article based on this question: “I need an article about adoptee rights in Michigan.”
I wanted to see, by chance, if any of the minor content I contributed online, amid the countless regurgitated media stories with outright false information about adoption, its history, and its denial of basic legal and human rights to countless thousands of adopted in Michigan, had any impact.
I know, it was an absurd idea to think that me, a gnat in the mighty giant and swirling cesspool of global adoption storytelling and lies surrounding U.S. and global intercountry adoption, might have had an impact.
I know you’re not surprised with my finding that nothing I contributed to scholarship and public understanding of denied legal rights to Michigan adoptees made it into the artificial intelligence factory machine that consistently is flagged for sharing false information, particularly about marginalized groups.
In fact the article had no mention of the latest stalled efforts to restore basic legal rights to Michigan adoptees in 2024.
For me it served as an important reality check that all of the harm adoptees suffer from the institutionalized lies and deception about U.S. adoption history and practices will only be super charged as AI-driven information generation takes over all communications platforms.
I can’t fight it.
I can’t beat it.
However, I will occasionally call out the deception and lies that can broadly be called adoption propaganda.
To my adoptee colleagues out there, I think your best bet will be to be aware that stories like what you will see below are coming. In fact they have probably been bubbling around the internet now for many months.
This information will be parroted and retained by most people, and your stories will continue to be ignored, as they have been for decades, I fear.
Be sure to practice good care and take comfort that others out there who are in your situation will see the lies for what they have always been.
Question posed to ChatGPT on May 9, 2024, with my editorial comments included in brackets and capitalized words: “I need an article about adoptee rights in Michigan.”
The ChatGPT response: Title: Understanding Adoptee Rights in Michigan: A Guide to Accessing Birth Records and Unraveling Legal Complexities
Introduction: Adoptee rights have been a topic of significant discussion and advocacy across the United States, including in Michigan. The journey to access birth records and understand legal complexities can be daunting for adoptees navigating their identity and personal history. In this article, we delve into the landscape of adoptee rights in Michigan, exploring the legal framework, recent developments, and avenues for obtaining vital information.
Legal Framework: Michigan’s adoption laws have evolved over the years, shaping the rights and access of adoptees to their original birth records. Historically, Michigan, like many states, sealed original birth records upon adoption, making it challenging for adoptees to access crucial information about their biological origins. However, in recent decades, there have been significant shifts towards greater transparency and access.
In 2014, Michigan passed legislation allowing adult adoptees born in the state to obtain a copy of their original birth certificate upon request. This marked a significant milestone in adoptee rights, granting individuals the opportunity to reclaim a fundamental aspect of their identity. The law, however, included provisions for birth parents to redact their names from the birth certificate if they wished to remain anonymous. [THIS IS WILDLY FALSE INFORMATION. LEGISLATION SIGNED INTO LAW IN 2015 BY FORMER GOP GOV. RICK SNYDER ALLOWED ADOPTION AGENCIES TO REFUSE SERVICE TO SOME FAMILIES BASED ON ALLEGED FAITH OBJECTIONS. A 2014 LAW SIGNED BY SNYDER EXPANDED LEGALS RIGHTS TO SO-CALLED “PUTATIVE FATHERS.”]
Recent Developments: Since the implementation of the 2014 law, there have been ongoing discussions and efforts to further enhance adoptee rights in Michigan. Advocacy groups, adoptee organizations, and lawmakers continue to push for legislative reforms that promote greater transparency and remove barriers to accessing birth records. [THIS ONLY STARTED IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS FOR REAL REFORM.]
One notable development is the movement towards unrestricted access to original birth certificates, allowing adoptees unfettered access to their complete birth records without redaction or restrictions. Such measures aim to empower adoptees in their journey of self-discovery and identity formation while respecting the rights and privacy concerns of all parties involved. [THIS IS MOSTLY GOBBLY GOOP.]
Avenues for Obtaining Birth Records: For adoptees navigating the process of accessing their birth records in Michigan, there are specific steps and resources available. [THIS IS IS A FALSE STATEMENT.] The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) oversees vital records, including birth certificates, and provides guidance on obtaining these documents. [THIS IS A FLAT OUT LIE.]
To request an original birth certificate, adoptees must submit an application to the MDHHS, along with any required documentation and fees. It’s essential to follow the specific procedures outlined by the department to ensure a smooth and efficient process. [THIS IS FALSE TOO.]
Additionally, adoptees may seek support from advocacy organizations and legal professionals specializing in adoptee rights. These resources can offer valuable assistance and guidance throughout the journey of accessing birth records and navigating any legal complexities that may arise. [THIS IS A BUNCH OF NONSENSE WORDS.]
Conclusion: Adoptee rights in Michigan have seen significant progress in recent years [FALSE STATEMENT], thanks to legislative reforms and ongoing advocacy efforts [ALSO FALSE]. However, challenges remain, and there is still work to be done to ensure that adoptees have full access to their birth records and the opportunity to explore their identity without barriers or restrictions. [THIS IS A NONSENSE SENTENCE TOO.]
By understanding the legal framework, staying informed about recent developments, and utilizing available resources, adoptees in Michigan can navigate the process of accessing their birth records with confidence and clarity. [THAT’S PURE MALARKY; NONE OF THIS IS TRUE.] Ultimately, the journey towards reclaiming one’s identity is a deeply personal and transformative experience, and adoptees deserve full support and empowerment every step of the way. [THIS IS MORE GOOBLY GOOP.]