In recognition of World Adoption Month, we shine a light on Isabelle Canadine ’27, a dedicated Soaring Together scholar at Lehigh University. Isabelle’s story is not just one of resilience and hope; it embodies the transformative power of family and the importance of embracing one's identity.
A Unique Beginning
Canadine was born into the Seldovia Village Tribe in Alaska, a community rich in Native Alaskan heritage. As the youngest of three sisters, her early years were marked by challenges that would shape her perspective on family and belonging. “When I was around three or four years old, my sisters and I were adopted due to substance abuse issues in our biological family,” Canadine recalls.
Her eldest sister, Olivia, played a pivotal role in this journey. “Olivia was told that she was too old to be adopted,” Canadine shares. “But her goal was to ensure that my other sister and I were adopted together. She refused any adoption opportunity that didn’t include us.”
A Loving Home
The Canadine family was created through serendipity. “My parents met in Africa while my mom was serving in the Peace Corps and my dad was there as a pilot for the Royal Air Force. Somehow, they wound up in Alaska.”
The Canadines decided they wanted to adopt, perhaps even a pair of siblings. But then they were shown photos of Isabelle and her two sisters, who were living in foster care at the time and “really needed a home,” Canadine says. “My mom said, ‘You can’t show us these photos and expect us not to do anything.’ And just like that, they went from having no kids to suddenly adopting three sisters. It was a beautiful mess.”
Canadine's parents embraced their new roles with enthusiasm despite the initial chaos of parenting three young girls. “They didn’t even know how to baby-proof their home,” she laughs. “It was a whirlwind, but it was filled with love.”
Canadine and her sisters have maintained a connection with their biological grandfather, who had advocated for their adoption. “He’s a significant part of my identity, connecting me to my Native Alaskan roots,” she says.
A Life of Adventure
Canadine’s family later moved from Alaska to Mozambique and then Guatemala, exposing her to a variety of experiences. “Living abroad opened my eyes to the world and taught me the importance of understanding different cultures,” she explains. “My parents wanted us to appreciate the privilege we had and to give back.”
This sense of responsibility drives Canadine’s ambitions today. At Lehigh, she studies global studies with a focus on international relations and indigenous law, aiming to make a difference for marginalized communities. “I want to advocate for indigenous rights and bring more awareness to native cultures,” she says.
Hopes for the Future
Canadine’s aspirations extend beyond her education. “After Lehigh, I hope to attend law school and specialize in indigenous international law,” she says. “There’s a huge gap in understanding and representing indigenous issues, and I want to change that.”
Her commitment to social justice is evident in her initiatives on campus. “I’m working on creating programs that integrate indigenous education into the curriculum,” she explains. “I want my peers to understand the richness of native cultures and the challenges they face.”
Embracing Adoption
Reflecting on her adoption experience, Canadine emphasizes the positive aspects of being adopted. “Adoption can be a better option for many children,” she believes. “It’s about the love and care you receive, not just blood relations. I see so much of my parents in myself, and they are my family.”
Her journey exemplifies the profound impact of love and support in shaping identities. “I think people should consider adoption as a viable option for family,” she says passionately. “Every child deserves a loving home, and adopting can change lives.”
As we celebrate World Adoption Month, Canadine’s story reminds us of the strength found in family bonds, the beauty of diverse cultures, and the power of giving back. Her journey is an inspiration, encouraging others to embrace their identities and advocate for those in need.
