Finally. As of June 1, 2009 if you were adopted in Ontario – or if your child was placed for adoption – you can receive information from your birth and adoption records through Service Ontario.
Prior to locating my birth parents the only information I had was the initial of my birth surname, my first name at birth and non-identifying information such as my birth parents eye colour (which, incidentally was incorrect) and their hobbies. Now adoptees and birth parents can find out more information about the adoption or choose to file a disclosure veto to protect their privacy.
I could list the full details of the benefits of open adoption records, but I’m interested in hearing from other birth parents and adoptees, as well as adoptive parents. For me, having access to my adoption records and information surrounding my birth is like finding missing pieces to a favourite puzzle. Even though I am in contact with my birth parents it’s nice to know that others who wish to start searching or simply obtain more information about their adoption can do so with a little more ease.
I’m and adult adoptee in British Columbia and am glad to see the records opening up some more. I have obtained all my records and have been processing this information on my own blog. Thanks for posting this! When I have more time I’m going to read this blog more carefully. Thanks!