Dear Kansas agencies and foster parents: The government is letting down LGBTQ+ foster youths

By: Ariona Cook

Outlets: Kansas Reflector

Published: August 20, 2026

Words: 940

Last Updated: 2 months ago

Body Text Preview

On June 24, 2025, a district court judge signed my name change order. By noon, I bore the last name Cook.

This change signaled more than a nominal tie to my chosen family. It marked my official departure from the generational cycles of domestic violence and addiction that lingered with my previous name. There are many reasons why I found refuge from these cycles with the Cook family, but one of the most transformational reasons …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

About

FAQ

Email Us