The Anna Jinja Show
The Anna Jinja show focuses on the stories, issues, and questions connected to adoption and foster care experiences.
The host is an international adoptee with biological roots in Korea and adopted roots in the United States. As you can imagine, her journey and experiences as a transracial adoptee are multifaceted. Her experiences have been with the pain of discrimination and rejection as well as the joys of self-discovery and learning to embrace all aspects of her identity.
Along the way, she has discovered that she is not alone. We’re all – in some ways – adopted into or out of homes, cultures, communities, and relationships as we grow and evolve. This show illuminates the theme of adoption, in all ways, in our lives. And how those experiences create who we are and who we are yet to be.
Her hope is that through engaging with the guests and creative content, we are welcomed home in this world, cradled in the belief that we belong, that we are worthy, and that we are loved.
So stay tuned, and you may discover your own adoption story.
The Anna Jinja Show
Anna Sheffield & Tayvia Harrington
In our latest episode, we are thrilled to introduce Anna Sheffield, a captivating guest whose story showcases the beauty of self-discovery and the importance of community. As an adoptee and the first Black member of her family, Anna has navigated the complexities of identity, belonging, and empowerment throughout her life.
Growing up, Anna found solace in music, performing in church choirs, and eventually pursuing her passion for fashion as a model. However, her journey was not without its challenges. In our conversation, Anna opens up about her feelings of abandonment and the strength it took to carve out her unique path in a world that often fails to understand the nuances of race and identity.
One of the most touching moments in our discussion revolves around a poem that encapsulates the essence of love: "Love isn't colorblind. Love sees the hues, the shades, the depth." This powerful sentiment resonates deeply with Anna's experiences, reminding us that true love and friendship transcend superficial differences.
As Anna reflects on her friendship with Tavia, we learn the value of supportive relationships during tough times. Their connection exemplifies how love can foster resilience and hope, offering a safe space where one can truly be themselves.
Tune in to this inspiring episode and discover how Anna's journey can resonate with your own adoption story or experiences of self-acceptance.
Creative Interchange: Poem Selected by Tayvia Harrington
From Tayvia: I found this poem online, and I think Anna would love it. It reminds me of the love her mom has always shown her adoptive daughters. The author is anonymous, so no way to attribute, but nonetheless beautiful!
Love Isn’t Colorblind
Love isn’t colorblind—
it sees the hues, the shades, the depth.
It doesn’t erase, it embraces.
Love learns the history, the struggles, the pride.
It listens, it stands beside.
Love doesn’t say, “I don’t see color.”
It says, “I see you, and I love all of you.”
Love walks the journey, not just with words,
but with open hands and an open heart.
It speaks when silence won’t do,
and holds space when the world won’t.
Love means knowing—
that laughter and love don’t shield from pain,
that the world may not always be kind,
but this home, this heart, always will be.
Love is learning, unlearning,
showing up, standing strong.
Not pretending race doesn’t matter,
but knowing it does—
and vowing to love even better.