If they manage to stop Madonna from adopting the kid

What are the chances he'll be adopted at all if she's unable? What are his prospects if his father manages to regain custody?

I hope these questions are seriously considered. I'd hate to be a kid stuck in a life of poverty who one day is able to comprehend that he had a chance to grow up wealthy with Madonna and was denied the opportunity.

And, I do think this was an impulse from the heart for Madonna. She has my admiration for her efforts.


http://journals.democraticunderground.com/bigtree

I can't stand Madonna and I feel this was simply a publicity stunt/grab. I DO sincerely feel that Angelina Jolie is sincere, but not Madonna.

And, I have mixed feelings about the adoption of African children. If they are orphans, of course, bring them to a loving family. But, if there is a living parent, as there was in this case, I would prefer to see these celebrities help raise the entire family out of poverty.

She's reportedly pledged a couple of mil for an orphanage there. I don't know what more she could do; maybe stay there and run the place?

Publicity shublicity. This is a perfect use for all of the stuff that comes with being Madonna.

how it affects her. I don't see her doing much altruistically and without gain.

I applaud the money for the orphanage, but the need was there a long time ago. It seems it's de rigeur for wealthy celebrities to adopt African orphans now.

YMMV, especially if you are a fan of hers.

kid gets home with food, clothing, and education. Madonna gets her pictures taken. Potential profit from all of that returned to the country in the form of donation.

Why is it so important WHY she did it? Why would that make any negative difference at all in the life of the child? That should be the question.

would use the life of a little child in order for some publicity?

If I could raise awareness beyond my meager means in order to bring attention to the HIV/AIDS pandemic in Africa, I would. But I'm too busy doing HIV/AIDS education in underserved communities in NYC.

Don't foster children, as well as orphans, deserve to be adopted?

I work in the non profit world and have extensive experience dealing with people who regularly contribute millions of dollars to all kinds of causes both nationally and internationally.

I have worked with celebrities who sit on the boards of some of the same non profits and their work is done quietly, without the glare of the cameras or the popping of flashbulbs.

I may be wrong, but my impression of her is that she is an opportunist.

And, I think it is far better to reunite the families than adopt out the children of foster families, except of course in cases where there is tremendous neglect or abuse. In Africa, the neglect is rampant, but it isn't the fault of the parents; they are victims themselves.

Meeting with and seeing some of these 'behind the scenes' celebrities is pretty humbling when you consider that they have a wealth of charities to choose to help and they choose the one you are vested in. I just don't see Madonna in the same light.

she wil be on Oprah on Wed. to discuss the adoption.

i saw some editorial saying madonna "picks up a souvenir from Africa" referring to this kid...as though his life chances were so wonderful before she came along..