Shirley Chung was only twelve months when she was taken in by a US family back in 1966.
Born in South Korea, her biological father was a member of the US armed forces, who went back soon after Shirley was born.
"He left us behind, is the kindest phrasing I can express it," says Shirley, now 61.
Approximately one year later, Shirley was welcomed into the home of a US couple, who took her back to the Lone Star State.
Growing Up American
She was raised living a life similar to that of many American youths.
"I lived and breathed and found mischief similar to other teenage Americans of the 80s. I belong of the 80s," Shirley recalls.
She became a mother, entered matrimony and worked as a music instructor.
Her life progressed for many years with little cause to doubt her US citizenship.
But then in 2012, her life was turned upside down.
Discovering Non-Citizen Status
She misplaced her government identification and required a new one.
However when she went to her government agency, Shirley was informed she needed to prove her legal standing in the country.
"I had an emotional collapse upon discovering I wasn't a citizen," she says.
Widespread Problem
This situation isn't unique. Estimates of how many US adopted individuals lack citizenship range from thousands to tens of thousands.
Dozens adoptees have been removed to their nations of origin in the past decade, according to advocacy groups.
Additional Account
Another woman, who requested anonymity for fear of attracting the attention of government officials, was adopted by an US pair from the Middle East in 1973 when she was two years old.
"I settled into my existence, consistently believing that I was an American citizen. That's what I was told. I continue to feel that today," she states.
Historical Context
Over many years, international adoptions authorized through legal systems did not automatically guarantee US citizenship.
The Children's Citizenship Law of 2000 made some headway in addressing this issue, providing immediate citizenship to children adopted from abroad.
Present Concerns
Those fears for adopted individuals and their families have risen even further following shifts in administration.
Adoptee rights groups say they have been overwhelmed by requests for help and some adoptees have disappeared from public view.
"Following political outcomes came in, it began increasing significantly with requests for help," noted an attorney specializing in adoptee cases.
Lacking National Identity
"At the end of the day, they don't care about your personal history. They're not interested that you're legally here and it's just a paperwork error," she said.
"I frequently explain that one document of paper has essentially just ruined my life," she said.
"From my perspective right now, I feel stateless."
Potential Solution
Despite adoptees being left in limbo for decades, legal experts believe it is simply a matter of political will that should gain bipartisan support from across the political spectrum.
"This ought to be an uncomplicated solution: adopted children should be equal to their natural brothers and sisters of guardians who were American nationals at the moment of their birth," commented a legal advocate.
Last Appeal
Shirley wishes she could get the US president into a room, so she and others like her could explain their stories.
"I would request to show understanding. We're not illegal aliens," she said.
"We were placed on planes as little itty-bitty babies. Just please hear our accounts and honor with the promise that America made to every of the babies that were brought here: American citizenship."
