Rhonda M. Roorda — Torn from the Root: A Memoir of a Black Transracial Adoptee -with Jelani Freeman — at Union Market

Rhonda M. Roorda presents her memoir *Torn from the Root: A Memoir of a Black Transracial Adoptee* in conversation with Jelani Freeman at Politics and Prose at Union Market. Roorda, adopted as a toddler from the New York foster care system into a white Evangelical family, recounts navigating two worlds while grappling with feelings of shame and not being enough. Her story explores her journey to find her birth family, the trauma and resilience she experienced, and a critical examination of the child welfare system and transracial adoption. Joining her is Jelani Freeman, an attorney and advocate who spent much of his own childhood in foster care and later became a leader in child welfare reform, serving on boards including the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. This event offers a deep dive into issues of identity, belonging, and the lasting impact of transracial adoption.

When: Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 7:00pm

Place: Politics and Prose at Union Market, 1324 4th Street NE, Washington, DC 20002

Tickets: This event is free with first come, first served seating.

Lineup: Rhonda M. Roorda, author and speaker; in conversation with Jelani Freeman, attorney and child welfare advocate.

Book: Roorda’s memoir *Torn from the Root: A Memoir of a Black Transracial Adoptee* (hardcover, $30.00, ISBN 9781439927939) is available for preorder and will be published on July 31, 2026.

Accessibility: To request accommodations or inquire about accessibility, email events@politics-prose.com ideally one week in advance; all requests will be accommodated up to the time of the event.

Note: Seating is first come, first served; no ticket purchase required.