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One adoptee was only twelve months when she was adopted by a US family back in 1966.

Born in South Korea, her biological father was a member of the US armed forces, who went back soon after Shirley was born.

"He left us behind, is the nicest way I can put it," states Shirley, now 61.

After around a year, Shirley was adopted by a US couple, who brought her to the Lone Star State.

Growing Up American

She was raised experiencing a lifestyle similar to those of most young Americans.

"I moved and breathed and found mischief like many American teenagers of the 80s. I belong of the 80s," Shirley says.

She became a mother, entered matrimony and worked as a music instructor.

Life carried on for decades with little cause to question her US citizenship.

However in 2012, her life was turned upside down.

Citizenship Crisis

She lost her Social Security card and needed a replacement.

But when she visited her government agency, Shirley was told she needed to prove her legal standing in the country.

"I had an emotional collapse after finding out I wasn't a citizen," she explains.

A Common Issue

Shirley is not alone. Estimates of how many US adopted individuals lack citizenship vary between thousands to tens of thousands.

Numerous adopted individuals have been deported to their nations of origin in recent years, as reported by advocacy groups.

Another Story

A different individual, preferring to remain unnamed for concern about attracting the attention of government officials, was adopted by an US pair from the Middle East in 1973 when she was two years old.

"I settled into my life, always understanding that I was an American citizen. That's what I was told. I continue to feel that today," she states.

Historical Context

For decades, international adoptions approved by legal systems did not automatically guarantee US citizenship.

The Children's Citizenship Law of 2000 created progress in rectifying this, providing immediate citizenship to international adoptees.

Current Fears

Those fears for adopted individuals and their families have increased substantially following shifts in administration.

Advocacy organizations say they have been flooded with assistance inquiries and certain individuals have disappeared from public view.

"Following political outcomes came in, it began increasing significantly with requests for help," said an attorney working with adoption law.

Lacking National Identity

"At the end of the day, they don't care about your personal history. They're not interested that you're legally here and it's just a paperwork error," she expressed.

"I frequently explain that one document of paper has essentially just ruined my life," she stated.

"As far as I'm concerned right now, I feel stateless."

Potential Solution

Although these individuals being left in limbo for many years, attorneys believe it is just a case of political will that should unite people from across the political spectrum.

"It should be an uncomplicated solution: children through adoption should be equal to their natural brothers and sisters of parents who were US citizens at the time of birth," said an attorney.

Last Appeal

Shirley wishes she could meet with national leaders into a room, so she and others like her could explain their stories.

"I would ask him to please have some compassion. We're not illegal aliens," she said.

"We were put on planes as little itty-bitty babies. Please listen to our accounts and please follow through with the promise that America gave each one of the children that were brought here: US nationality."