The Shades of Belonging Study
Exploring Religious Identity and Sense of Belonging Among Jewish Adoptees of Color

PAPER: Exploring Religious Identify and Sense of Belonging Among Jewish Adoptees of Color
Uncover the rich tapestry of cultural identities at Shades of Belonging. Delve into our latest research on religious identity and sense of belonging among Jewish adoptees of color. Explore how diverse backgrounds shape our understanding of culture and society. Join us in celebrating the beauty of inclusivity and acceptance.
VIDEO: Research Review & JOC Adoptee Panel Discussion
PANEL: Exploring Religious Identify and Sense of Belonging Among Jewish Adoptees of Color
In this 1 hour recording, Dr. McCarty-Caplan presents the findings of this groundbreaking research and interviews two JOC adoptee survey participants on their lived experiences.This research project will utilize qualitative and quantitative data to gain insight on the experiences of Jews of Color (JOC) adoptees and their racialized Jewish identity formation. This research, conducted in partnership with other Jewish organizations, is designed through the lens of Critical Race Theory. The data collected from this research will work to expand our understanding of transracial adoption and racial equity.
Research Timeline
01
Gathering Data from JOC Adoptees
In collaboration with the funders and other supportive Jewish and Adoptee organizations, the researcher distributed the survey in Fall '23 into Winter '24 to capture insights from JOC Adoptees nationwide.
02
Hosting 1:1 Interviews
Thirty survey respondents were selected at random to participate in an hour long 1:1 interview with the researcher. in Winter '24. Participants were randomly selected from a diverse list of volunteers.
03
Shades of Belonging Festival May 5, 2024
The research concluded with a community festival in Spring '24 to celebrate and uplift the experiences of Jews of Color; particularly as they relate to adoption. Hosted at the beautiful Skirball Cultural Center in LA, this was a multi-faceted event intended to build community among Jewish adoptees, Jewish people of color, their families, and allies and included local politicians supporting this important work.
04
Data Analysis & Publishing
The Dr. David McCarty-Caplan analyzed the survey and interview data and insights during Summer '24. He made the results transparent to the JOC Adoptee community, sharing initial LIVE to the public and on this website before he submitted to journals for publication. Watch recording. Download paper.