Erik Paulsen: “As millions of Americans turn their attention to Sochi for the Winter Olympics, we cannot overlook Russia's continued…”

“As millions of Americans turn their attention to Sochi for the Winter Olympics, we cannot overlook Russia's continued ban on intercountry adoption. Every day, families across America eagerly await news that the Russians' ban on allowing American families to adopt Russian children has finally ended. Some families have decided to look at other places to adopt, but many are still committed to completing their adoptions. Families like the Thomases, from Minnetrista, Minnesota, have not given up hope in adopting their second child from Russia. In 2008, they completed an adoption for their son Jack. After a successful transition, they have now begun the process of adopting Jack's younger brother, Nikolai. Unfortunately, Russia's adoption ban has squashed any hopes of completing that adoption. Mr. Speaker, every child, no matter where he is born, should have the opportunity to grow up in a loving family. I urge my colleagues to continue fighting to end the Russian adoption ban and to let our families bring home their children. ____________________”