Behind the Bastards Part Two: The Woman Who Invented Adoption (By Stealing Thousands of Babies)
May 2, 2019
In this engaging conversation, comedian and podcast host Sofiya Alexandra dives back into the chilling narrative of Georgia Tann, the notorious baby thief. The discussion highlights Tann's dark legacy of child abduction and the societal implications of her ruthless tactics. Alexandra deftly mixes humor with serious critiques of unethical adoption practices. They also touch on the emotional trauma experienced by victims and how these historical injustices resonate today, underscoring the critical need for mental health solutions in navigating such legacies.
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Dehumanizing Practices
- Single mothers faced horrific practices like being blindfolded during labor and kept uninformed of their baby's gender.
- By the mid-1940s, societal norms dictated that white single mothers surrender their children.
Child as Textbook
- One of Georgia Tann's victims became a ward of the University of Tennessee's Home Economics Department.
- His name was changed to "Richard Practice House," highlighting the dehumanizing treatment.
Ironic Authority
- Georgia Tann, ironically, was considered an authority on child welfare, even advising Eleanor Roosevelt.
- She was sought out for commentary on child abuse stories, despite her own horrific practices.
