Paula Zahn tonightSomeone has posted a message in the forum stating that Paula Zhan will address Friday night’s show tonight at 8pm. The note says that she has scheduled a panel that includes people who are involved in the China adoption community. If anyone has more information about this, please share. 
Note from RQ: The section below is for comments from ChinaAdoptTalk.com's community of registered readers. Please don't assume that I agree with any particular comment just because I let it stand. Posts are generally only removed if they don't follow the rules of the site. Anyone who fails to comply with the rules of the site may lose his or her posting privilege. 110 Responses to “Paula Zahn tonight”Leave a ReplyYou must be logged in to post a comment. |
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January 8th, 2007 at 11:45 am
Should be very interesting!! I bet their ratings soar… for that I am unhappy.
January 8th, 2007 at 11:51 am
I just received an email from our local FCC-NY on this. The show apparently received many comments from the Chinese adoption community and they want to revisit the topic. Apparently they have invited new speakers who are more informed on the topic—someone from GWCA, the president of the Organization of Chinese Americans, a Chinese journalist, and someone from FCC or other adoption group.
January 8th, 2007 at 11:56 am
Thanks for letting us know.
I think CNN’s journalistic standards have plummeted in the last few years. Sometimes when I’m playing with the remote and stop on a CNN program, I have to double-check the station to make sure I’m not watching FOX News!
I did send a comment to CNN after Friday night’s debacle. I’ll be watching tonight out of curiosity, but with little faith CNN will actually get it right!
Jackie
January 8th, 2007 at 11:57 am
Gee, what a novel idea….to invite people who know a thing or two about adoption from China…
January 8th, 2007 at 12:11 pm
Anyone know what time her show is on?
Thanks,
Leslie
January 8th, 2007 at 12:17 pm
Zoies Mom-
It’s listed in RQ’s comments as 8pm. I’m sure that is probably eastern time.
January 8th, 2007 at 12:47 pm
Have it set to be recorded. This should be interesting.
Mendy
January 8th, 2007 at 12:57 pm
Yes, Eastern time. Since it’s live, it’s 5 pm Pacific. We have it set to record, too.
January 8th, 2007 at 1:04 pm
Whoa! I just read the transript and find it hard to believe anyone of ANY intelligence could spew forth, especially as Martin did. I am literally blown away by the level of ignorance displayed. Once I stop spitting out the f word, I willhave to submit some comments, but honestly could not do so with any sense of propriety right now. Hard to believe they’ve had a whole week of shows on racism and had anything worthwhile to say. I am speechless.
[shakes head in disbelief, but sad knowledge of reality]
PT
January 8th, 2007 at 1:08 pm
This was posted on another group I belong to:
From FCC New York:
Feel free to forward to other lists:
Allison
RE Paula Zahn Now Panel on China Adoption:
Here is an unexpected development: I received a call from a producer at the
Paula Zahn Show last night. She was very contrite, noted that they had
received MANY comments from adoptive parents expressing their anger and
disappointment at Friday’s panel. The producer asked many questions to be
sure they understood our community’s views.
She informed me that they had decided to run a new panel on China adoption
“to redress the issue.” - which will air tonight.
(Paula Zahn Now AIRS: 8-9 p.m. ET on CNN)
We understand that they have invited new speakers, including someone from
the Great Wall Adoption Agency, the president of the Organization of Chinese
Americans (a national group with which FCC is forging ties), a Chinese
journalist, and someone from FCC or another adoptive families organization.
Thank you to all of you who sent such articulate feedback to CNN over the
weekend. You were heard!
- David Youtz at david.youtz@e…..
President, FCCNY
January 8th, 2007 at 1:19 pm
Sounds to me like Paula may have gotten herself into a little trouble. I’m anxious to see what she could possibly say to make amends.
January 8th, 2007 at 1:27 pm
Is anyone else a little nervous to watch tonight? I know that my emotions are running over the top, but Friday night’s show was so upsetting to our family. I just felt so blindsided! I did write a complaint, btw.
I just read a response from the woman panelist today and she pretty much just tried to reinforce her own position.
I’m not up for Ms Zahn’s excuses or her defense of what was said.
On the other hand, it could really help me recover from the weekend if it ends up being good.
Are y’all prepared to watch?
January 8th, 2007 at 1:28 pm
I am anxious to see if their views change or if they screw this one up as well. I guess we’ll have to wait and see…At least they are making an attempt to right the wrongs, and it is good to know that we are being heard.
January 8th, 2007 at 1:29 pm
I wonder how many emails they received from the outraged adoption community? As much as I dislike CNN, I will tune in again tonight to see if they get the facts straight this time. It should be interesting to see how they set up the segment — whether or not they apologize for the previous report.
January 8th, 2007 at 1:29 pm
One has to be impressed with how strong the Chinese adoption community is that this type of response occurred, and so quickly. Love or hate CNN (I am ambivelent and would not have been surprised if Fox had done the same story), I have to say I impressed with the reaction. I can only hope they do a good job. I am amazed at the misinformation out there. I had a 1/2 hour “reassurance” chat with a sis-in-law who saw on her local news that the laws for adopting in China were changing. Either the station she watches, or her comprehension, were flawed. Knowing her, I will give it a 50/50 :)
Posted this in an earlier message, but that was so yesterday. Here is a link for a story called: Finding Home 50 Years of International Adoption. It has been a great story from the beginning and has had wonderful follow-up by adopters and adoptees who have written their personnal stories in response to the series.
http://americanradioworks.publicradio.org/features/adoption/
January 8th, 2007 at 1:30 pm
This show better start and end with a big fat apology!! I’m going to watch, but I’m going to take notes, so I’m better prepared to send an email tomorrow if I need to!!!
January 8th, 2007 at 1:30 pm
up against the BCS championship game. The only people watching will be those who already are in the know. Good planning CNN.
January 8th, 2007 at 1:34 pm
RQ……………….they should have called you!!! We could get an intelligent perspective and a peek at you :)
January 8th, 2007 at 1:38 pm
Ummm, sorry cmbj… what’s BCS?? Not everyone in America is sports-afflicted, erm, -addicted!!! I’m looking forward to watching tonight’s segment, despite having sworn off of CNN forever after Friday’s fiasco/segment. Clearly, once again, the Chinese Adoptive Families have shown we have a powerful voice. Now, if that dratted American Girls doll company would just get the picture!!
January 8th, 2007 at 1:47 pm
Oh yeah, I’m a Buckeye. Thank god for DVR! I wouldn’t want to miss any of Paula Zahn scrambling to make amends (if she does) or the Buckeyes v. Gators.
January 8th, 2007 at 1:47 pm
Yipeee! So glad to hear that CNN is going to air a more balanced view (hopefully). That will be a first. I was just about to fire off a letter to them but we’ll see how it goes tonight. I may still have to do that.
Actually, I think Fox would do a much better job of covering Chinese adoption stories. . . I personally feel that they do their research before they put stories on the air. Let’s hope CNN can get it right this time!
January 8th, 2007 at 1:48 pm
It’s a start I suppose… I am just afraid that they will go so far on our side, that no one will see both sides or even bother wanting to see it… ya know? IF ONLY THEY HAD DONE IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME… And you are correct, it should start AND END with an apology for the monstrocity of Friday’s show. Oh… and will MARTIN be there? again, as Zahn said “He knows better than anyone”. I think he should be there… with his mouth taped shut, forced to listen… and then I think the panel should force him to explain to the comments he made on Friday…
ok… putting the claws away…
January 8th, 2007 at 1:49 pm
Wow, what an opportunity CNN has here tonight to “try” and make things right. I think Paula should, at the very least, apologize for the remarks made on Friday evening by her panel and then she should ask prudent questions to her new panel and get the right word out there. I’m a little nervous though that this could turn bad, but we’ll see.
January 8th, 2007 at 1:50 pm
Well, I’ll say one thing, this is a class move on her part and a testimony to the vocal objection from the adoption community. We’ll see if she in fact redeems herself.
By the way, I totally forgot there was a college football game tonight. I thought they all ended on January 1.
January 8th, 2007 at 1:51 pm
We’ve been heard! Although I did not post here, I did send an email to CNN. I look forward to hearing what they have to say.
LID 6.13.06
January 8th, 2007 at 1:51 pm
I was sadly disappointed with Friday’s segment and wrote to tell them that. I look forward with great anticipation to see what is said tonight.
CNN didn’t have to do tonight’s show. I’m giving them the benefit of the doubt at this point that tonight they will make things right.
January 8th, 2007 at 2:00 pm
peden~
Actually, two years ago Fox News *did* do a fabulous story about Chinese adoption. I had it recorded for over a year. Whenever I needed a good “happy” cry about adoption, I would play it.
My dh and I are Fox News junkies; they aren’t perfect, but at least I don’t have a headache from constantly rolling my eyes…
:)
January 8th, 2007 at 2:04 pm
All CNN and Paula have to do is discuss the stated “topic” and they will have come quite a way towards redeeming themselves. To expect an apology may just be pushing our luck.
Go Buckeyes! A Gator victory would be too much for this girl to take ; )
January 8th, 2007 at 2:15 pm
Oh my- I forgot about the football game! Yikes, there is no way my boys are going to let me have the TV tonight. My 6′5″, 250 pd. 16 year old is currently looking into playing football at Ohio when he graduates. My next oldest son wants to go to Florida. I’d have better luck getting them to play princess dress up than miss that game. For those who don’t know the National Championship game is on tonight. It’s like the Superbowl of college football! I will definately be relying on my RQ families eyes and ears. Dang, I even wrote a letter to a gazillion people this weekend. I really need to get Tivo. Will add that to my list of things to do this month.
January 8th, 2007 at 2:17 pm
cmbj, you are right that with such an important game on tonight, very few will turn on CNN, much less than an average night anyway. I’m afraid this will amount to a front page error and a retraction on page 46 a week later. I’m not optimistic that the people who saw the misinformation on Firday will see tonight’s correction.
January 8th, 2007 at 2:18 pm
Almost forgot, as a Buckeye I’m duty bound to add,
GO BUCKS!
January 8th, 2007 at 2:25 pm
LOL, my 17 yr old son is having about 10 friends over tonight to watch the football game. I may have to escape to the bedroom to see any of the CNN show.
January 8th, 2007 at 2:27 pm
she can try to make amends, but it’s too late to save her reputation in my opinion. I would never trust her again. Since we happen to know about this issue, we knew it was incorrectly represented. If the story was on a topic that I knew nothing about, I may have believed her biased reporting. No second chances with me (I have never trusted CNN anyway, they are way too biased in much of their reporting), but I will Tivo tonights show to see how they try to wipe the egg off their faces!
January 8th, 2007 at 2:46 pm
Here is the email I received from the FCC group here in Charlotte, NC. What a great testament to the power of our adoption community!
AMAZINGLY, Paula Zahn is redressing her China Adoption story after all the
complaints (THANKS, see bottom). But if you watch tonight’s show, bear in
mind this email from Jennifer about the Friday show, confirming their
tabloid tv approach:,
Phyllis
… from Jennifer Maslowski at jennem@nyc.rr.com
I was personally asked — in fact, begged — by the producer Ms. Weininger
to appear on this [1/5/07] show. When I declined because I am not very
knowledgeable of the facts and figures, I was told that I was “exactly what
they wanted.” This, and the fact that more informed candidates had been
turned down, gave me a very bad feeling, so I declined.
Up until 3 hours before broadcast, Ms. Weininger was still calling to ask if
I, and my three-year-old daughter, would reconsider and appear. Ms.
Weininger told me that the purpose of the piece was to raise support and
sympathy for the China adoption community. She implied that the other
panelists would be experts in the area.
Since the piece was in fact derogatory and racist, none of the panelists had
the slightest knowledge of China adoption or adoption in general, and the
“experts” were just as loosely affiliated with the subject, it is clear that
Ms. Weininger was being deceiving in her attempts to get a parent (and
CHILD!!!) on air to take the abuse of the panelists. She deliberately misled
me so that even if I did appear, I would have been as unprepared as
possible.
In my opinion, the show was a piece of prejudicial, ignorant tabloid trash.
But the issue goes well beyond that, in the face of Ms. Weininger’s attempts
to get FCCNY participation through deception.
I strongly encourage all families to read the transcript, and protest the
callousness with which they let an important subject be mangled by a bunch
of inexperienced know-nothings.
Transcripts of the 1/5 CNN show are available at
http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/pzn.html
Paula Zahn can be reached directly at paula.zahn2@turner.com.
Jennifer Maslowski
—–Original Message—–
From: Families With Children From China Greater NY
Subject: Paula Zahn Now to redress the issue of China Adoption 1/8 at 8pm ET
Here is an unexpected development: I received a call from a producer at the
Paula Zahn Show last night. She was very contrite, noted that they had
received MANY comments from adoptive parents expressing their anger and
disappointment at Friday’s panel. The producer asked many questions to be
sure they understood our community’s views.
She informed me that they had decided to run a new panel on China adoption
“to redress the issue.” - which will air tonight.
(Paula Zahn Now AIRS: 8-9 p.m. ET on CNN)
We understand that they have invited new speakers, including someone from
the Great Wall Adoption Agency, the president of the Organization of Chinese
Americans (a national group with which FCC is forging ties), a Chinese
journalist, and someone from FCC or another adoptive families organization.
Thank you to all of you who sent such articulate feedback to CNN over the
weekend. You were heard!
- David Youtz at david.youtz@e…..
President, FCCNY
January 8th, 2007 at 2:57 pm
I have to agree that CNN has lost all credibility with me. They are perhaps going to show the other side because we complained to the sponsors. But that does not excuse them for completely blowing the story to start with.
This does not appears to be a case of just getting the story wrong, but of making a deliberate attempt at putting a panel together who would call all parents who have adopted from China a bunch of racists.
I hope that the U.S. eventually fixes domestic adoption laws to protect children and their new families. When there has been a breakdown so their original family can not care for them (or worse, abused them) it is a tragic thing, but when another family steps forward for them then those children should be secure that this is their family now and they cannot be taken away.
But until the U.S. works to fix the current mess of our own domestic adoption laws, many families will continue to go overseas to adopt.
Were things stable with current domestic adoption laws then those twins would have never had to go on a court ordered visitation with a woman who signed her parental rights away, and thus would not have been kidnapped and taken over the Canadian border. Maybe it does not happen much, but it does happen with domestic adoption and it absolutely does not happen with International adoption.
January 8th, 2007 at 3:16 pm
yup, Buckeye here as well…and yes, thank you thank you thank you Mr. DVR.
obviously that’s…recording Paula Zahn and watching the game with family. (I’m in my Buckeye gear already…as well as Autumn. hehe)
seriously though, I am interested to see how this segment goes and if they address what they did on Friday at all.
January 8th, 2007 at 3:37 pm
This was just posted on my local FCC Yahoo group.
Quote:
I just received the following e-mail from one of my friends who
belongs to an FCC group in the Northeast:
Thanks, Joan
RE Paula Zahn Now Panel on China Adoption:
Here is an unexpected development: I received a call from a producer
at
the Paula Zahn Show last night. She was very contrite, noted that
they had
received MANY comments from adoptive parents expressing their anger
and
disappointment at Friday’s panel. The producer asked many questions
to be
sure they understood our community’s views.
She informed me that they had decided to run a new panel on China
adoption
“to redress the issue.” - which will air tonight.
(Paula Zahn Now AIRS: 8-9 p.m. ET on CNN)
We understand that they have invited new speakers, including someone
from
the Great Wall Adoption Agency, the president of the Organization of
Chinese
Americans (a national group with which FCC is forging ties), a
Chinese
journalist, and someone from FCC or another adoptive families
organization.
Thank you to all of you who sent such articulate feedback to CNN over
the
weekend. You were heard!”
Unquote
Laureen
January 8th, 2007 at 3:48 pm
Any other Gator Fans in the house??
Laureen in Florida
Leaving for China in 10 days
http://www.babysites.com/sites/laureenmary
January 8th, 2007 at 3:56 pm
Gators! No way….Go Bulls!!!! :)
January 8th, 2007 at 3:59 pm
A big thanks to you, RQ and the entire adoption community out there. Tonight’s program will not put “pandora back into her box”, so to speak. However, it is a first step. After my husband and I watched the program, we were so mad we could hardly speak. One of the first things my husband said was get on RQ and have her start rallying the troops. That is exactly what RQ did. RQ rallied the troops and the adoption community rose to the challenge. The effort started on the RQ site and spiraled from there into APC, Yahoo Groups, etc. The response to this has been incredible and it all started with RQ.
A big thanks to everyone who submitted letters. You know they received a ton of e-mails for them to put together a show this fast. There is one difference this time. More people throughout the adoption community will be watching. I hope they get it right this time.
January 8th, 2007 at 4:06 pm
Mom2Isabel - You are not alone. My father informed me that I was “born a Gator.” I’m glad I’m not alone. Have a great trip! I’m excited for all the new mommies and daddies, and hoping to be next real soon.
As for Paula - I have some concern that she will not be able to apologize or admit her wrong-doing. I’m afraid that she simply cannot and save some kind of face for future shows like the advertised “Compassion or convenience? Parents intentionally stunting their disabled child’s growth to make care easier” which she bills as an ethical controversy, but actually seems to be another “bash the parents” show.
Go Gators!
Jennifer in Florida
LID 10/27/05
January 8th, 2007 at 4:08 pm
I was blown away at how they could call us racist and then go on to make the racist comments they did… and get away with it.
I doubt Paula is in trouble… CNN is probably eating all this up.
I absolutely detest CNN - they put on people who are neither expert nor informed and give the most inflammatory commentary just to get ratings. Its scary that people actually consider this to be a news program. Chills are running down my spine as we speak. And to read that they tried to set up an adoptive parent - just goes to show the depths they will go to in order to get ratings. Phhhtew! I had to spit that out of my mouth - leaves a bad taste.
January 8th, 2007 at 4:20 pm
I know we are all anxious to go after Paula Zahn, but hopefully this doesn’t get turned around and show more negativity toward Americans. Hopefully officials in China are not watching. We don’t need anymore negative press. I want my daughter, I don’t care what people think.
Sometime things are better off left alone. Sometimes its better to forgive and forget.
January 8th, 2007 at 4:24 pm
I am really looking forward to tonight’s show. It will be interesting to see if they really do make amends.
In other news, almost one week down in the wait for referrals!! Yippee! ( I hope we get our referral soon, so that I can start filling out my daughter’s application for medical school…since she is guaranteed to be an Asian-adoptee brainiac. Or at least that’s what I was supposed to learn from Friday’s show ;-) )
January 8th, 2007 at 4:29 pm
OK call me a sceptic but I don’t think they are contrite - I think they see ratings - they have realised through the flood of emails that there are a huge number of adoptive families who are going to tune in (even if it turns into another ‘train wreck’)- and give them ratings which what keeps their sponsors, advertisers and shareholders happy.
Magnolia’s Friend
http://journey-with-magnolia.blogspot.com/
January 8th, 2007 at 4:38 pm
I am really looking forward to the show tonight. I, as many others sent an e-mail to the show letting them know that our motivation was simpley to adopt a child. We are not racist and we do not believe in the stereotypes the panel attributed to the Chinese. Hopefully this show will present the view of the parents. Thanks to the rumor queen for bringing the issue to all of us.
January 8th, 2007 at 4:40 pm
Bruno,
As someone who works in the news industry (me), it is not good to “forgive and forget” such egregious mistakes as the Zahn segment turned out to be. It is extremely important to hold media outlets accountable for accuracy and bias in reporting. Our democracy and the futures of our children depend on it.
January 8th, 2007 at 4:45 pm
I hope you are right, but remember who we are dealing with, China does not live a democracy.
January 8th, 2007 at 4:46 pm
Hey guys, not a true ‘Gator’ fan here myself, but married to a Dolphin, Emu, Gator, Seminole fan. (in that order) DH’s Dad went to Florida, Mom went to State. As a Michigan fan I am overwhelmed with all the Florida teams!
Actually sick of Football myself!
I am with motherhood@48 - I think CNN is going to do well tonight in ratings even with the Bowl Game.
Go Gators!
January 8th, 2007 at 5:00 pm
Wow! What an amazing community of people! I cannot believe that our voices were not only heard but responded to with action! I feel privileged to be part of a community of small voices who stands up for itself and its children and together makes a loud ruckus to be reckoned with. Absolutely amazing!
I hope with all my heart that Paula gets it right tonight. It sure sounds like the panelists will shed a much better light on our intentions as parents.
January 8th, 2007 at 5:11 pm
Jennifer is correct. They did want people who were not as well prepared to appear on the show. Another person who has wonderful insight and could have truly added to the show was interviewed and when the person answered the questions in a way that CNN wasn’t wanting (actual knowledge) they were turned down.
I have faith that the reps that will be there tonight to speak will do us all justice!
I am so proud of this community for not cowering away from this issue! Way to go!
January 8th, 2007 at 5:15 pm
tiffgirlmama- I too remember the FOX News story about China adoption from a couple of years ago. You’re right, it was wonderful and sensitive. They did a great job. I hope they got a lot of positive feedback….
January 8th, 2007 at 5:18 pm
Like everyone else, I am happy that CNN is going to be airing a new show, this time with a different spin on the subject. Let’s hope they get it right this time.
If they DO get it right, I think a barrage of positive emails are in order as well.
(gotta say I’m rooting for the Gators, not because I really like them, but because I’m from Michigan, where I believe it’s illegal to root for the other team!)
January 8th, 2007 at 5:19 pm
Mom2Isabel–
GO GATORS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
heehee
January 8th, 2007 at 5:29 pm
Here is an email that CNN just sent to us regarding our letter to Paula Zahn:
“Thanks very much for your email concerning the segment “China Tightens Foreign Adoption Regulations†that aired on Paula Zahn Now on Friday, January 5th. We value your feedback and want to make sure you have the information about our upcoming continued reports on this subject.
Tonight’s Paula Zahn NOW will again address the new rules for foreign adoptions of Chinese children. The coverage will include a new report by CNN’s John Vause in Beijing, China. Paula will be joined by a number of guests to discuss the issue, including David Youtz, President of the Greater NY Chapter of “Families With Children From Chinaâ€, and Ginny Gong, President of the “Organization of Chinese Americansâ€.
Again, thank you for taking the time to express your opinion, and please tune in for this follow up report.
Regards,
CNN Public Information”
January 8th, 2007 at 5:29 pm
I hope all of the people who questioned me about that piece watch the follow up. I was doing a lot of expaining over the last two days
T
January 8th, 2007 at 5:30 pm
i actually just received an email reply from cnn…i’m just going to cut and paste it here…
Thanks very much for your email concerning the segment “China Tightens Foreign Adoption Regulations†that aired on Paula Zahn Now on Friday, January 5th. We value your feedback and want to make sure you have the information about our upcoming continued reports on this subject.
Tonight’s Paula Zahn NOW will again address the new rules for foreign adoptions of Chinese children. The coverage will include a new report by CNN’s John Vause in Beijing, China. Paula will be joined by a number of guests to discuss the issue, including David Youtz, President of the Greater NY Chapter of “Families With Children From Chinaâ€, and Ginny Gong, President of the “Organization of Chinese Americansâ€.
Again, thank you for taking the time to express your opinion, and please tune in for this follow up report.
Regards,
CNN Public Information
January 8th, 2007 at 5:37 pm
EH HMMM! We’re having aligator for dinner tonight during the game! (any chance you gators are fixing those PB and choco. candy buckeye’s? - that much better for dinner than gator meat!)
Can’t believe this is on DURING the game- i agree that the timing is rather interesting. Well, as some have said already thank goodness for dvr!
January 8th, 2007 at 5:38 pm
Just an FYI to correct an earlier posting on this forum: it appears that David Youtz is indeed slated to appear on the Paula Zahn follow-up segment on adoption from China (per his wife, on the GuangxiFamilies list, and per the message CNN has sent out). However, I’ve just now received the following message from GWCA, in response to my request for confirmation earlier today:
—————-GWCA sent:————-
We are also aware that CNN will be airing another segment with Paula Zahn regarding adoption from China. However, there is not a Great Wall staff member scheduled to appear on the show. They may have invited a family who adopted from Great Wall to appear on the show, but this has also not been confirmed. I hope this answers your question!
—————————————
I’m looking forward to viewing this!
January 8th, 2007 at 5:39 pm
I got the same email as Joei and Maranara, sent at 5:17 pm EST.
January 8th, 2007 at 5:49 pm
CNN also sent me the exact same email listed above. I like how they refer to it as a “continued report”.
January 8th, 2007 at 5:50 pm
Magnolia’s Friend, I’m with you. I wish they truly cared enough to get the story right out of sense of integrity but they’ve proven again and again that they are only out for the ratings.
I’m happy to read that Fox had a positive show on Chinese adoption–I wish I saw it!
January 8th, 2007 at 6:05 pm
I received the same canned response from CNN. I think my two favorite phrases are “again address” and “follow-up report.” Hmmm…this kind of an apology attempt would not be acceptable in my KIindergarten class by 5 and six year olds! I’m e-mailing CNN again. I think…I KNOW they can do better than this!
January 8th, 2007 at 6:15 pm
I GOT AN EMAIL FROM CNN also–it reads:
Thanks very much for your email concerning the segment “China Tightens Foreign Adoption Regulations†that aired on Paula Zahn Now on Friday, January 5th. We value your feedback and want to make sure you have the information about our upcoming continued reports on this subject.
Tonight’s Paula Zahn NOW will again address the new rules for foreign adoptions of Chinese children. The coverage will include a new report by CNN’s John Vause in Beijing, China. Paula will be joined by a number of guests to discuss the issue, including David Youtz, President of the Greater NY Chapter of “Families With Children From Chinaâ€, and Ginny Gong, President of the “Organization of Chinese Americansâ€.
Again, thank you for taking the time to express your opinion, and please tune in for this follow up report.
Regards,
CNN Public Information
Interesting and nice that they responded…hope tonight makes up for the other evening!
January 8th, 2007 at 6:49 pm
got that email as well…
I wonder if this program was already planned before Friday’s fiasco.
anyways…the DVR is set and it’ll be interesting to see the show (after the game or tomorrow..hehe)
and yes, I would have to agree with Truly Blessed…it is illegal to root for the other team. It’s that way for us Buckeyes as well…yes I’m for the ‘other team’. LOL :)
go BUCKS
January 8th, 2007 at 7:59 pm
I am already worked up about Zahn…the show hasn’t even started yet, I just have a feeling that she will disappoint us…again.
GO GATORS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
January 8th, 2007 at 8:12 pm
Watching and taking it all in.
Is it me or is Paula “stumbling” on her words quite a bit?
Jeanne
Orlando, FL
January 8th, 2007 at 8:13 pm
I’m watching it now as well…
I hate it when people ask leading questions like “But dont’ you REALLY think…” or “but isn’t it true that…”. The guest did well to say “No, this is how it is” and get the truth out there.
N
January 8th, 2007 at 8:15 pm
Jeanne~yes she definetly seems like she is stumbling. It’s almost as if she was innocent and not being flippant on Friday. It was funny to her on Friday, but not so much today it seems.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:15 pm
We all got the same email, I am sure we are all on a distribution list that made it easy to mail us all the same email!
January 8th, 2007 at 8:16 pm
Wow she is back pedaling…. at least the tone is a little more serious this time.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:20 pm
Are there better experts today? At least more informed?
January 8th, 2007 at 8:21 pm
I thought that about Paula’s speaking as well. I believe I detect a bit of nervousness. I believe that also might be evidence that the show was not planned in advance, but was put together rather quickly to address the uproar.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:23 pm
Yeah, she stumbled alright, and the other guy was sweating while being interviewed. Interesting to note this piece was at least twice as long as the first piece! Good! Much more serious this time. Good. Maybe they learned a thing or two at cnn….nah, not likely.
Snick
Oct 31/05
January 8th, 2007 at 8:23 pm
Yes I felt that she was “covering” I think that the community made a loud enough statement that they had to address the situation. I’m proud that our voices were heard, even if I had to watch her again to hear it.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:24 pm
I received that email too. Yeah, she was stumbling.
Roland Martin is still talking about the racist aspect of adoption. It should have been pointed out to him that race had nothing to do with the original topic on Friday’s show. It was about the new rules in China. I’m not sure I would have accepted what he said like Ginny Gong did, but easier said than done. I was not there - I’m here watching. I liked what David Youtz said.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:25 pm
I don’t think this segment rectified the situation at all. David Youtz was brilliant, and concisely stated all that I feel regarding this issue. The original panelists were back-pedaling like crazy, but defended their positions. Paula was unapologetic, and self-important. Very disappointing.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:25 pm
I just finished watching and I have not heard what I wanted to hear. Mr. Martin claims they were making fun of the stereotypes, but they were making fun of our children instead. He is very defensive and if you notice he keeps talking about African American children, like he has a personal issue with folks prefering other children over African American babies (as if it really mattered what color your baby is!)
I wish they had talked about adopting [b]children [/b]period, regardless of what their ethnic background is, but I guess it is not possible on this show.
Still disappointed in GA.
Laura G.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:26 pm
Yep, she back-pedaled, distanced herself (inappropriately) from her own actions as seen in the clips from Friday that she showed, and disavowed her own participation in the idiocy. David Youtz did fine (didn’t slap the silly blond, which I would have done). But one of the main issues was STILL not addressed. Until just a few years ago, non-AA parents adopting AA children was actively discouraged and in some cases illegal, because it was considered racist to do so. So how was it racist for us to adopt AA children a few years ago, and suddenly racist for us not to now?
January 8th, 2007 at 8:26 pm
OMG, I feel more upset now then I did when I watched Friday’s dibacle. Paula visibly has her own opinions about adopting from China and it really didn’t matter to her what the FCC guest had to say, she just kept flipping her blonde hair. I hate to say this but I am glad this is happening because it gives us more insight as to the level of ignorance that is out there. I feel like I am already defending my child and I haven’t even seen her picture yet.
RQ, I copied and pasted your remarks regarding domestic adoption to my friends and family because I couldn’t have said it better myself. Thank you for being there for us and I hope we get our referrals next!
LID 10/14/05
Carrie in PA
January 8th, 2007 at 8:28 pm
Yes, I think she was stumbling a bit. I still can’t get over what the other guy (not Roland) was saying you get a 25 or 50% “discount” if you adopt an African American child - discount? What a word to use in an adoption setting!
January 8th, 2007 at 8:28 pm
I feel they missed the point and we had to endure the worst of the stereotypes again. sigh….at least we got to hear from a few others but I feel the damage is done. I turned to FOX.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:29 pm
Martin is an A**!
It is unfortunate that they could not focus more on the flaws with domestic proces… and that the only real reference to parents changing their minds was out of Martin’s mouth regarding a crack momma… again, making fun of a very real fear parents face (any mother or father on the doorstep….saint, sinner, or whatever).
And Zahn just seemed determined to push the race issue … and notice she said some felt the panelists were racist… as if we didn’t see her as racist or anything.
Nope still not happy, but definately will NEVER watch that HORRIBLE show again…
January 8th, 2007 at 8:31 pm
I felt the exact same way, about it being put together quickly. But, I am not very happy when they said that ‘race is always a factor.’ For us, race was not a factor, at all. The factor was, having a baby taken from us, we couldn’t even handle the thought of that. He also stated that many people are very happy with the domestic adoption process. Maybe, but if their baby had gotten taken away, or if the birth mother had come along 5 or even 10 years later, I don’t think that they would still be ‘happy’ with it…It is those risks that lead a lot of us away from adopting from the U.S. It is not about race, we are looking into maybe Ethipopia for DD#2…It is like the representative from FCC said, adoption is a personal choice. It is MOST often not about race it is about many complex factors, including that China has (did have…) a stable process. The way he thinks that because one person he knew had a good experience with domestic adoption makes it %100 good, it makes me mad. I am fuming, not as bad as the first show, but I am still mad. What right do they have to call ALL adoptive parents that adopt from China is a racist?!? That infuriates me to a boiling point!!!! I know they partly took back that statment, but it didn’t feel sincere, it sounded as if he was almost mocking us. And just humoring our outrage and saying ’sorry.’
January 8th, 2007 at 8:31 pm
The talk about discounts bothered me too.
It was better than friday, but there are a few other points that I wish could have been made.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:31 pm
Did anyone else cringe every time they said “chinese kid” I don’t know why but that term is not ok with me. Child, baby, but not “kid”.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:31 pm
What “discount” is he talking about? Aside from the offensive term, I looked into adopting an African American child before we chose China. There was only one agency I could find that was willing to talk to me, and their services cost WAY more than China. I think they just make up this crap and assume that we will be intimidated by the statistics.
UURRRR!!!! I’m still mad as hell.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:31 pm
Ok, so I reconnected with an old friend who has not been on this journey with me. I asked her to watch and give me her opinion given that she does not know the ins and outs of IA. She said Roland looked like an a** and that he was pulling things out of thin air (his e-mails). She said the other panelist (I cannot remember his name) seemed nervous but somewhat redeemed himself admitting he was wrong. She said Paula seemed nervous and that she kept putting everything on her panelists when, in the clips, she seemed like an active participant.
Just thought I would share that. I just wanted to know what an “outsider” thought. Oh, she was most moved be the intro piece at the orphanage in Beijing. I thought that was well done, as well.
SIS
January 8th, 2007 at 8:32 pm
waitingfornoel-
I completely agree! If they could’ve talked a little bit about why we don’t choose to adopt from the U.S., then maybe they could see that it is NOT because we are racists, it is because of the risk of having your baby taken away, at birth or any time the birth parents want to fight for their kids back!!
January 8th, 2007 at 8:33 pm
I can’t watch because of futbawl but I can’t wait to see the recording. In my email to Zahn I said something to the effect that if someone else chose the Friday night panel she should be angry, and if in fact she chose that panel she should be ashamed of her ability to research. If she is backpedaling or struggling tonight I think I will probably see her as just another pretty face, albeit perhaps smarter than some, and be even more angry with CNN. If she is any kind of real person she should probably feel the same.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:34 pm
I just finished watching Paula Zahn fup show also. David Youtz was wonderful. I felt he spoke for many of us. I noticed that Paula was stumbling many of her words and appeared nervous. Mr. Martin seemed defensive and self important. I think that just may be his personality. Cenk Uygur sort of back peddaled and seemed to understand why people were upset w/ him. Solangel Maldonado was not present. Ginny Gong spoke briefly but was interupted by Mr. Martin. He ticked me off. Wonder if he has adopted? Since he seems to know so much about it.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:34 pm
I agree sad; mostly because no-one wanted to take ownership over what they said; a simple apology would have gone a long way. As for the premise, that some parents have an underlying racial reason when they chose to adopt a child or infant from China; well thats just clearly not true. There is no proof of this and notably they had no data to quote that there was. I keep saying they need to get their facts straight and keep their own bias out of the discussion.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:35 pm
Hi Everyone, I am new to this site and my DH and I just finished watching the Paula Zahn show. I am so upset. We are not going to China to adopt a designer baby, or a smarter baby, we are going to adopt our daughter. Plain and simple China was the country that most people we knew adopted Internationally from. I am so done with CNN.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:36 pm
Thanks RQ for all our information
January 8th, 2007 at 8:36 pm
Is it possible that we are being a little extreme with the intolerance button? Perhaps Paula was bulldozed by Roland on Friday and was not sure of the direction that the discussion was heading . He is a very strong voice, borderline aggressive. In my opinion he also dominated the discussion this evening as well. I wish that the time consumed by his speaking would have been equally shared with Ginny Gong. I am just wondering if Paula was as shocked by him as us? Of course only they know the truth and I am sure their rating may reflect the smoke & mirrors if that were the case……
January 8th, 2007 at 8:37 pm
The domestic adoption agency we looked at offered a little bit lower rates on the agency fees for full AA children, but not 50% discount like they were talking about. I thought that was discriminatory and didn’t like it when I saw it. Of course there’s all kinds of other fees required for adoption, so this lower rate is non material, but still, in my opinion, not right. How would the child feel if they found out there was a lower fee for them vs another child?
I suppose the argument could be made too about SN since some of the fees are lower? hmmmm
January 8th, 2007 at 8:38 pm
I agree with Indymichele. Did they have to keep using the term “kid”?? They didn’t come out and say they were sorry for anything said before, it just seemed like they were defending themselves. Paula certainly didn’t help. David did well, I just wish he could have had more time to shove the facts down Paula’s throat. The images and videos of the children were wonderful, though.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:39 pm
I missed the show Friday night and the clips were worse to watch than reading the transcipts. I wanted to speak to something ironic. The New Day Foster home cares for special needs children from what I recall. The director there did not indicate that but the ironic part is that those of us who adopt SN children from China, are never mentioned. Do they think that the 1600+ of us who adopted SN children think we were getting the “Smart China Doll” We adopted our children because we love them and have NO expectations for their IQ, looks, work ethic or anything esle. I just think that would have helped some of the non AP to know that many of us adopt SN from China and other countries but moreover, none of the AP could go through this process NSN or SN bacuase it is the “in” thing to do. What is that anyway? Parneting is too damn hard to do it because it is the “in” thing.
Leslie in TN
January 8th, 2007 at 8:40 pm
Those panelists gave me hives. What discount? And why is it just race that is presented as the determining factor when considering the adoption of African American children? Of course race is always a factor–in the sea of the million other factors to be considered when adopting a baby. It would be a disservice to not consider the race of a child. I wish that there would have been more focus on how difficult it is to adopt domestically–regardless of race. I believe that is more of a determinant for many families than race is.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:43 pm
I really hope this opens the eyes of the US in changing some of the adoption policies, I really wished they would have talked more about the problems with domestic adoption.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:43 pm
Oh and that whole “some” parents have underlying racial reasons for choosing China thing really pisses me off! How do you quantify SOME???? If 5 out of 55,000 had racial reasons, that would be SOME. Hardly makes the argument valid. Some is not scientific at all. Show me a quantifyable number! Shall we talk about how SOME social workers don’t recommend caucasians adopt african americans? Martin has no concrete numbers… just single cases that he pulls out of thin air. “My friends said it wasn’t all that bad…” Well, maybe MY friend said it was awful… Again, lets talk numbers, Martin… not your self serving generalizations…
January 8th, 2007 at 8:44 pm
Can I also say that Ginny Gong was terrific? She refused to offer the absolution that Paula was begging for, insisting that only adoptive parents could forgive such an insult.
January 8th, 2007 at 8:44 pm
I agree… too much backpeddling, missed the point, no apologies…. last time I will ever watch that channel!
January 8th, 2007 at 8:44 pm
How about when she said “tainted” instead of “talented”. Major Slip!
January 8th, 2007 at 8:44 pm
Okay Ya’ll, I am down here in SC and my husband doesn’t want me to watch it because I was so upset, it is 8:40………I am axiously waiting on all of your responses and the transcript………..
January 8th, 2007 at 8:55 pm
I noticed AND noted that “tainted” not talented slip as well. SHAME ON HER! And it was not her only slip up! Does anyone watch regularly to see if the following is normally true:
1. Does she usually mispronounce SO MANY words?
2. Do her eyes normally look so large, bulgy, and dialated?
I’m thinking she was pretty flustered. Perhaps she truly is upset by the thousands of e-mails she got! Maybe she got in trouble for allowing her guests to be so flippant about a serious topic! Hope so.
January 8th, 2007 at 9:00 pm
I was happy to see the emails they put on the air. I was surprised they put those on. They were well written and got the major points accross. They could have posted some of the emails that were driven more by anger and not getting the point accross as much, which would have made adoptive parents look even worse. I am happy that the public was made aware that the things said were VERY offensive to adoptive parents.
I (all of us) was wanting apoligies though, I guess the one guy kind of apoligized and Roland was just so argumentative. Not too fond of him!! Was expecting that. That David guy was great!!! Of course there were things said by all (the discounts, etc. that were sickening) but I think the show could have opened eyes a bit, in a positive way and hopefully it cleared up many stereotypes people may have received from watching the show on Friday. And heck! Maybe more people WILL adopt through the foster system too, which would be great too!! They are ALL our children no matter what country they come from.
Oh and ya, Paula was REALLY nervous in the beginning. WOW!! That was kind of funny! ;)
January 8th, 2007 at 9:00 pm
Hi All,
I have been a longtime lurker and now finally a poster! I read the transcript of the show and did send a email like many of you. I also watched tonight and like many of you thought it was better than Friday but a long way from helpful.
I agree with many of the earlier posts but still have wonder about a few things. Has anyone questioned the research and/or data of the writer of the paper that was a primary motivator of the discussion on Friday. I read the abstract on the internet and had questions about the source of the data- anyone else?
I also wonder about what these people define as racism versus preference or even comfort level with respect to adoption?
Anyway we are excited to see our daughter in 26 sleeps.
January 8th, 2007 at 9:00 pm
Notice Zombit… I mean Zahn put it all on ‘the panel’… “our panel went another direction.” Who is supposed to be pushing the direction of the show???
Still very very angry…
January 8th, 2007 at 10:40 pm
I just got home from work…and I am so upset that I have missed this. I got an email from CNN…does anyone have transcripts?? I am so mad I didn’t get to see it!!!
Help!
~Linda