From ALMA to The Adoptee Lounge
How the 1970s adoption reform movement shaped my journey—and how today’s virtual community continues the legacy of connection and healing.
By Lisa Pena-Humes
Angela Tucker (left) with Lisa Pena-Humes.
The 1970s marked the dawn of the modern adoption reform movement in the United States—a time of bold challenges and long-overdue truths. In my 20s, I found myself drawn to this rising wave of activism and joined the Adoptees’ Liberty Movement Association (ALMA), one of the earliest and most influential organizations pushing for adoptee rights. ALMA didn’t just support adoptees searching for their roots—it ignited a national movement that gave rise to dozens of search, support, and advocacy groups across the country. Although I stopped attending the monthly meetings as the business of life got in the way, my connection to other adoptees never faded—I’ve always naturally gravitated toward them. With fellow adoptees, I’ve found a rare kind of understanding that even therapy can’t replicate—a shared language that brings clarity and belonging.
When ALMA ended, I realized how much I missed having a dedicated space to connect with fellow adoptees. Over the past two years, I’ve become more active on social media, and it’s been a journey of discovery. I first found Angela Tucker through her book, You Should Be Grateful, which I saw on an adoptee-focused Instagram account. Curious, I ordered the book, read it cover to cover, and felt an instant connection.
After finishing Angela’s book, I signed up for everything she offered, including her book club. It was through the book club that I first learned about The Adoptee Lounge. I was intrigued and decided to give it a try. I’ll admit—I was nervous before attending my first Lounge. I didn’t know what to expect, but Angela immediately put me at ease. Her warm and welcoming presence created a space where I felt comfortable sharing without pressure. She made sure everyone had the opportunity to participate, and it was clear that she genuinely cared about our stories. I was amazed at how quickly the hour and a half flew by. We shared bits of our lives and our journeys—just enough to feel connected without feeling exposed. When it ended, I left feeling recharged, seen, and understood. For the first time in a long time, I didn’t feel alone in how I experienced life as an adoptee.
That first Lounge was a turning point for me. I knew right away that I wanted to attend more. Each time I join, I take notes and reflect on my feelings afterward. It’s been a breakthrough for me—being able to process my experiences in a space where I belong, all from the comfort of my own home. Through the Adoptee Lounge, I’ve met incredible people from all over the world. Their insights and support have helped me in ways I never imagined, and I like to think I’ve helped them too.
This community has become a vital part of my life. It’s a place where I continue to learn about myself and better understand how being an adoptee influences every aspect of my life. I’m so grateful to Angela and to everyone who has made this space what it is. The journey isn’t over—there’s still more work to do—but I’m glad to have found a community that reminds me I don’t have to do it alone.
Lisa (she/her) is a recently retired NYC public school teacher. She lives in Queens, NY. She is also a wife, mom and grandmother. She was adopted from foster care domestically. She found her first family in the early 90s. She enjoys volunteering, community outreach, reading and traveling. She understands that adoption is different for each individual. She loves to listen to the stories of adoptees. She also enjoys supporting foster parents, adoptive parents and siblings in their relationships with adoptees.