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One adoptee was only twelve months when she was taken in by a American couple back in 1966.

Born in South Korea, her birth father was a member of the US armed forces, who returned home shortly after Shirley was born.

"He left us behind, is the nicest way I can express it," says Shirley, currently in her sixties.

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

An American Upbringing

She was raised living a life similar to those of most American youths.

"I lived and breathed and found mischief like many American teenagers during the eighties. I belong of the 80s," Shirley recalls.

She became a mother, got married and worked as a piano teacher.

Her life progressed for decades with no reason to question her US citizenship.

However in 2012, her world came crashing down.

Citizenship Crisis

She lost her government identification and required a new one.

But when she went to her government agency, Shirley was informed she had to demonstrate her status in the country.

"I had a little mental breakdown after finding out I wasn't a citizen," she explains.

A Common Issue

Shirley is not alone. Approximations of how many American adoptees lack citizenship range from thousands to tens of thousands.

Dozens adoptees have been removed to their nations of origin in recent years, as reported by advocacy groups.

Another Story

A different individual, who requested anonymity for concern about attracting the attention of authorities, was taken in by an American couple from Iran in 1973 when she was just a toddler.

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

Historical Context

Over many years, intercountry adoptions authorized through courts and government agencies did not automatically guarantee US citizenship.

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

Current Fears

These concerns for adoptees and their families have risen even further following recent political changes.

Advocacy organizations say they have been overwhelmed by assistance inquiries and some adoptees have disappeared from public view.

"Following political outcomes came in, it started to really cascade with pleas for assistance," said a legal professional working with adoption law.

Lacking National Identity

"Ultimately, authorities aren't concerned about your back story. They're not interested that you're legally here and it's just a paperwork error," she said.

"I always tell people that one document of paper has essentially just ruined my life," she stated.

"As far as I'm concerned right now, I feel without a country."

Potential Solution

Although these individuals being left in limbo for decades, attorneys believe it is just a case of political will that should unite people from all political parties.

"This ought to be a straightforward fix: adopted children should be treated the same as their biological siblings of guardians who were American nationals at the time of birth," said an attorney.

Last Appeal

Shirley wishes she could meet with national leaders for a discussion, so she and similar individuals could share their experiences.

"I would request to please have some compassion. We're not illegal aliens," she stated.

"We were placed on planes as infants and young children. Please listen to our story and please follow through with the promise that America made to every of the babies that were brought here: American citizenship."