Country singer Thomas Rhett and his wife, Lauren Akins, began their family in a truly special way back in 2016. Before having their own biological children, they chose to adopt a baby girl from Uganda.

Lauren had been on a trip to Uganda and saw a photo of the baby, which she shared on social media. Lauren told Kelly Clarkson, “I was in Uganda and shared a picture of a baby there on social media. That night, I was telling Thomas about the baby and how she needed a forever home.” At that time, Lauren didn’t realize that she and Thomas would end up bringing the baby into their own family.

When Lauren first held the baby, she felt a deep connection. “The moment I touched her, it felt like electricity,” she said. She told Thomas during a call, “We need to find this baby a forever home. I believe that’s why I’m here—to get her to her home.” Thomas was so moved by Lauren’s words that he spontaneously said, “Well, bring her home.” He later admitted he didn’t even fully remember saying it.

A year later, the adoption was finalized, and they named their daughter Willa Gray. Thomas and Lauren later had two more children, Ada James and Lennon Love. Despite the arrival of their other children, Willa holds a unique and special place in their hearts. The couple had thought about adopting before, but they didn’t expect it to happen so quickly.

Lauren shared, “I had always dreamed of adopting because my own mom was adopted. We had talked about it casually, but we never had a serious conversation about it until then.” The couple knew they had to welcome Willa into their lives.

The adoption process wasn’t without its challenges, particularly related to race. While Thomas and Lauren treat Willa with the same love as their other children, they understand that she may face different experiences because of her skin color. They recognize that in the current climate, race is a significant issue in the United States, and Willa might face prejudice that her siblings might not.

Lauren has been open about her concerns and the challenges she faces as a white mother raising a black daughter. She wrote, “I have been nervous to share my feelings publicly because some people believe I, as a white mother, shouldn’t or can’t raise a black daughter. This shaming creates anxiety for me, but I want to be clear that I am Willa’s mother who stands up for her and every person with her beautiful brown skin.”

She continued, “I want her to know she is loved and celebrated for who she is and that I’m here to support her and fight for her. I want her to be proud of her brown skin and know that I will always fight for her.”

Thomas Rhett also shared his thoughts on raising a black daughter alongside his two white daughters. “As a father, I’ve faced challenges and sometimes fear in speaking out. There’s a lot of support and love, but also some negativity. Despite that, I choose to speak up and support my family.”

The couple remains committed to supporting Willa and preparing her for the world, and they continue to advocate for understanding and change.

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(via YouTube - People )