Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg raised eyebrows this week after an appearance on a podcast where the openly-gay former mayor brought attention to the stark disparities in adoption practices, highlighting the existence of “white kids only” adoption lists.

Buttigieg, who is a father to two adopted mixed-race children, has articulated the challenges and complexities of navigating a racially charged adoption landscape. He noted that prospective parents often encounter different lists based on the race of the children they wish to adopt. This practice not only reveals a preference for white children but also perpetuates the notion that Black children are less desirable, which is a manifestation of systemic racism.

During an appearance Wednesday on the Flagrant podcast, Buttigieg, who is widely speculated to run for president in 2028, emphasized that anyone who claims race is not a factor in American society should experience the adoption process firsthand. He pointed out that the lists for adopting white children tend to be longer, indicating a preference that is deeply rooted in societal biases. This disparity raises critical questions about the value placed on children of different races and the implications for their futures.

The former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, further elaborated on the emotional and psychological implications for families like his, who are raising children of different racial identities. He expressed the importance of fostering an environment where his children feel loved and supported, while also acknowledging the societal challenges they will face due to their racial identity.

More on Pete Buttigieg’s comments about raising mixed-race children.