A Comprehensive Look at Adoption Practices in Argentina
Intro
Adoption in Argentina is more than just a legal procedure. It weaves into the fabric of society, expressing values, beliefs, and historical nuances. As the country evolves, so do its practices, shedding light on how social norms influence family structures. By analyzing various aspects of this complex journey, one can grasp not only the legal framework that governs adoption but also the cultural implications that resonate with individuals and families.
Over the years, the adoption sector has seen shifts—some driven by necessity, others by a push for reform. With a rich tapestry of history, Argentina presents a unique case study for understanding how adoption practices can vary significantly across regions and communities within the country.
In this article, we will dissect these layers systematically, highlighting key points that shape adoption in Argentina. First, we’ll delve into the legal aspects, followed by cultural impacts, emotional narratives, and real-world experiences of those involved in the adoption process. Through this examination, readers will gain insights into the ongoing challenges and efforts aimed at reforming the system to better serve children and families alike.
Historical Context of Adoption in Argentina
Understanding the historical context of adoption in Argentina is crucial for grasping the evolution of current practices and societal perceptions around this sensitive issue. As with many facets of Argentinian society, adoption has been shaped by a variety of cultural, legislative, and social influences over time. This historical journey not only reveals how adoption practices have evolved but also highlights the various challenges and milestones encountered along the way.
Early Adoption Practices
Adoption in Argentina has roots that trace back to the colonial period, where informal arrangements were often made between families. In these early days, the concept of adoption was more akin to fostering than the regulated processes seen today. Families would take in children, often relatives or neighbors, to raise them as their own, especially in rural communities. This practice was driven by a combination of economic necessity and extended family solidarity, rather than formal legal frameworks.
In this informal context, the societal attitudes towards these arrangements were largely positive, as they were seen as acts of goodwill. However, without official recognition, children adopted in these ways often lacked legal rights and protections.
Legislative Milestones
Fast forward to the 20th century, when Argentina began to adopt more formal legal structures regarding adoption. In 1969, the first major adoption law was passed, recognizing adoption as a legitimate means of establishing parent-child relationships. This represented a significant shift from the previously informal practices and laid the groundwork for the current legal frameworks.
As Argentina moved into the 21st century, further legislative advances were made. The Civil Code of 2015 redefined adoption procedures, emphasizing the child’s best interests and simplifying the legal processes. Notably, this new code aimed to streamline the adoption process and address long-standing issues such as bureaucracy and accessibility.
Despite these advancements, the journey has not been without legal hurdles. Various amendments and reforms have emerged in response to growing societal needs and global standards, reflecting the ongoing struggle between tradition and modernization.
Cultural Attitudes Towards Adoption
Cultural sentiments regarding adoption in Argentina have evolved significantly over the decades. Historically, adoption was often viewed with skepticism; societal norms favored biological connections, and there was a widespread belief that a child’s lineage defined their identity.
However, contemporary views show a marked shift, emphasizing the idea that families are formed through love and commitment, not solely by blood ties. Campaigns advocating for adoption and the visibility of successful adoptive families have contributed to changing perceptions.
Today, while challenges persist—especially in underserved areas where stigma may linger—there is a growing acceptance of diverse family structures. Adoption is increasingly recognized not just as a necessity for vulnerable children, but also as a viable choice for families seeking to expand their households.
"Only love can create a family. It's not about where you come from; it's about where you're going."
Legal Framework Governing Adoption
The legal landscape surrounding adoption in Argentina serves as both a foundation and a guiding framework for the myriad of processes and practices in the adoption sphere. A thorough understanding of this framework is paramount, not just for adoptive families, but also for legal professionals, social workers, and policymakers who navigate these waters. Legislation not only outlines procedures but also reflects the underlying values of society regarding child welfare and family structures.
National Adoption Laws
At the heart of Argentina's adoption practices lie its national laws, which govern every stage of the adoption journey. These laws have evolved over the years, driven by shifting societal attitudes toward family, child rights, and the need for legal safeguards. Under the Código Civil y Comercial de la Nación, or the Civil and Commercial Code, the adoption process is designed to create a legal bond between the adoptive parent(s) and the child, ensuring that the child's best interests are at the forefront.
One significant aspect of these national laws is their emphasis on the rights of the child. The laws ensure that considerations such as the child’s identity, culture, and background are respected during the adoption process. Furthermore, potential adoptive parents must go through rigorous assessments, which aim to evaluate their suitability as caregivers. This evaluation covers emotional, psychological, and financial stability, ensuring that children are placed in nurturing environments.
“The laws underscore that adopting a child is not merely a legal transaction but a profound commitment to nurturing and supporting a young individual.”
Judicial Processes in Adoption
The judicial processes in adoption are critical, providing an essential layer of oversight and legitimacy. Once the adoptive parents have completed the required assessments through agencies, their application is presented to the judicial system. Courts play a key role here, required to review each case to safeguard the rights of the child and ensure compliance with national laws.
A judge examines various elements: the backgrounds of the prospective parents, the legitimacy of the placement, and the child’s preference, if appropriate given their age and maturity. This judicial scrutiny is essential not merely for procedural correctness but also to instill a sense of trust within adoptive families. Families can feel reassured knowing that independent bodies examine their applications thoroughly, reflecting the profound implications of adoption.
Intercountry Adoption Regulations
The regulations governing intercountry adoption add further complexity to Argentina's adoption framework. With many Argentine children being adopted by families from abroad, it is crucial to establish a clear and secure process for such adoptions. The country is a signatory to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Cooperation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption, which outlines protocols aimed at protecting the interests of children and ensuring ethical adoption practices.
Intercountry adoptions involve intricate legal procedures that must align with both Argentine laws and those of the prospective adoptive parents’ countries. This dual-layer of regulation often leads to a protracted process, as both sets of legal frameworks must be complied with. Factors such as ensuring parental consent and verifying the child’s eligibility for adoption are paramount, emphasizing the need for thorough documentation and legal counsel throughout the journey.
This comprehensive legal framework is not just a logistical necessity; it also serves to uphold ethical standards in adoption practices, which is essential for the welfare of children. As such, understanding these laws and regulations is crucial for anyone looking to navigate the complex waters of adoption in Argentina.
Adoption Agencies and Their Role
Adoption agencies serve as the backbone of the adoption process in Argentina. They filter through both the hopes of prospective adoptive parents and the needs of children without families. This article delves into the significance of these agencies by exploring their varied types, the requirements for licensure, and the support services they provide.
Public vs. Private Agencies
Agencies fall into two primary categories: public and private. Each plays a distinct role in the adoption landscape.
- Public Agencies: These organizations are typically managed by the government at local or national levels. They often work to place children who have been abandoned or are wards of the state. Generally, public agencies operate under stricter guidelines and are designed to ensure the welfare of the child is prioritized.
- Private Agencies: Run independently, private agencies can offer a wider range of services and may cater to more specific needs. They often allow for a more personalized approach in the matching process. However, they might also charge fees, which could be a point of contention for some families.
Public agencies play an integral part in providing essential data on children available for adoption and can sometimes facilitate the entire process through state support. On the other hand, private agencies may provide additional services like counseling and educational programs, making them an appealing option for many families.
Criteria for Agency Licensing
For an agency to operate legally in Argentina, it needs to meet certain licensing criteria. These regulations help ensure that a high standard of care is provided to both the children and the adopting families.
Some key factors in the licensing process include:
- Legal Compliance: Agencies must adhere to national and local laws governing adoption practices. This includes proper safeguarding measures for children in care.
- Staff Qualification: Agencies are often required to have qualified social workers and counselors on staff. This professional training ensures that potential adoptive parents receive informed guidance.
- Operational Transparency: Licensed agencies must operate transparently, ensuring that all processes and fees are communicated clearly to adopting families.
"Licensing criteria not only foster trust but are crucial in protecting the interests of the children, ensuring a stable environment throughout the adoption journey."
Agency Support Services
Beyond merely facilitating adoptions, many agencies offer enhanced support services that can significantly benefit families. These services often provide a more holistic approach to the adoption journey.
Examples of support services might include:
- Counseling: Agencies frequently provide emotional support for both pre- and post-adoption phases. These services can help families navigate challenges and strengthen bonds with their adopted children.
- Workshops and Training: Some agencies organize workshops focusing on parenting techniques for adoptive parents, cultural sensitivity, and integration strategies for children coming from various backgrounds.
- Legal Assistance: Navigating the legal labyrinth of adoption can be daunting. Agencies often assist families with paperwork and legal requirements, ensuring a smoother transition.
In the realm of adoption, agencies do more than just match children with families. They are educators, advocates, and, at times, mediators, playing a vital part in the success of adoption in Argentina.
The Adoption Process in Argentina
The adoption process in Argentina is a labyrinthine journey intertwining legal stipulations, emotional narratives, and institutional frameworks. Understanding this process is crucial as it shapes not just the pathways for prospective parents but directly affects the lives of children seeking permanent homes. This section revolves around three pivotal phases in the adoption process: Application and Assessment, Matching with Children, and Post-Adoption Services and Support. Each phase has particular significance and intricacies that dictate the pace and success of adoption, ensuring that the best interests of children remain at the forefront.
Application and Assessment
The initial stage of the adoption process involves filling out and submitting an application along with undergoing a thorough assessment. This means prospective adoptive parents must provide a range of personal information, from financial stability to emotional readiness.
- Background checks, including social, criminal, and financial records, are standard. These checks aim to ensure that children are placed in safe and nurturing environments.
- Applicants usually attend interview sessions with social workers, who assess their motivations and readiness for adoption. This can often feel invasive, but it is a necessary step to gauge the compatibility of the applicant with the needs of an adopted child.
Furthermore, educational workshops are often part of this phase, where families learn about the implications of adoption.
Overall, this assessment process, though rigorous, is crucial in safeguarding the well-being of the child by aligning families that can genuinely meet their needs.
Matching with Children
Once approved, the goal shifts to finding a match with a child. This stage is laden with anticipation and hope, but it can also be daunting. Social workers typically play the pivotal role in matching families with children that fit their situation and preferences. Factors considered in this matching process include:
- Child's age, health, and background, alongside the experience level of the prospective family.
- Preferences set by the families are respected to an extent, but the focus remains on the child's best interests.
In this phase, communication and clarity are key. Families often receive updates about potential matches, and being open-minded significantly helps in this sensitive stage of the process.
Matching can sometimes take longer than expected, leading to frustration and uncertainty; however, patience is underscored as a vital virtue, as finding the right fit can make all the difference in a child's future.
Post-Adoption Services and Support
Finally, the journey doesn't end once a child is placed in a family. Post-adoption services are designed to support families during their transition.
- Support groups and counseling services are often available, providing a space for families to discuss challenges and share experiences.
- Agencies may also offer educational resources to help families understand the unique needs of adopted children.
Accessing these support systems is essential for enhancing the family's adjustment period and fostering bonds that build trust and understanding.
Above all, the success of the adoption process hinges not only on the legal and procedural aspects but on the emotional and psychological preparedness of the entire family unit. From application to post-adoption support, the entire process reflects an intricate tapestry of hope, resilience, and the enduring desire for connection.
"Adoption is a leap of faith that many families embark upon, blending hopes and dreams for a better tomorrow for the children involved."
In essence, understanding the dynamics of the adoption process in Argentina demands not just a legal perspective but also an emotional one, for it is within this blend that successful adoptions thrive.
Challenges in the Adoption System
Exploring the adoption processes in Argentina brings to light several challenges that individuals, families, and the system itself face. It’s not just a matter of legalities or paperwork; it involves the emotional and social aspects that can significantly influence the experiences of all involved. Understanding these challenges is crucial, as they depict a clearer picture of what adoption looks like in a country rich in history and diversity. From legal hurdles that can stall prospective adoptions to cultural stigmas that cast shadows over adoptive families, these elements intertwine and affect the journey of bringing children into loving homes.
Legal Hurdles
One of the primary barriers in the adoption system in Argentina lies within its complex legal landscape. Prospective adoptive parents often find themselves navigating a maze of regulations and requirements that may seem daunting. The length of judicial processes and the rigidities entrenched in legislation can be particularly frustrating. For instance, the required home studies, background checks, and their associated timelines can delay the adoption process significantly. Furthermore, the discrepancies in regional laws only add to the complexity.
Legal hurdles can transform a hopeful journey into a prolonged ordeal. Adaptability and persistence are key.
These legal frameworks, while intended to protect the rights of children, sometimes end up placing undue pressure on adoptive families. The variability in judges' decisions can also lead to unpredictability in cases that may require individualized considerations. Heightened awareness and understanding of these legal intricacies are essential for anyone involved in the adoption process.
Cultural Stigma
In Argentina, cultural perceptions about adoption often cast a long shadow. Many people still hold onto traditional views about family structure, which can create stigmas surrounding adoption. Some may view it as a last resort, hesitating to embrace the family formed through adoption fully. The prevalent idea that biological ties are somehow superior can lead to challenges in the adoptees’ identity.
Adoptive families may face scrutiny or unsolicited opinions from relatives or acquaintances, which fosters an environment where being open about one’s adoption journey can feel risky. Overcoming this cultural stigma requires continuous dialogue and education about the benefits of adoption, as well as advocacy for diverse family structures within society.
Creating safe spaces for everyone to share their experiences can help in mitigating these stigmas. Workshops, conferences, or community events where success stories of adoption are celebrated can actively reshape perceptions around this topic.
Economic Considerations
Adoption in Argentina is also influenced by economic factors. The costs associated with the adoption process can be prohibitive, even for well-intentioned families. Fees related to agency services, legal counsel, and home studies can quickly add up, posing a significant barrier for many. In regions where economic disparity is evident, these costs can deter families from pursuing adoption altogether.
Moreover, the economic well-being of families can directly affect a child's adjustment and the overall success of the adoption process. For instance, some families struggle to afford post-adoption support or counseling, which is often crucial for the emotional well-being of both the children and their new families. This financial strain can contribute to stress and insecurity, affecting relationships long after the adoption finalization.
Impact on Adoptees
The experiences of adoptees play a crucial role in understanding the multifaceted nature of adoption in Argentina. Adoption is not merely a legally binding procedure; it is deeply intertwined with personal identity and belonging. Each adoptee's journey can paint a vivid picture of the emotional complexities that come with their unique circumstances.
Identity and Belonging
For adoptees, the quest for identity is often a defining narrative. Engaging with this aspect reveals how essential it is for an adoptee to navigate their sense of self. Many children, regardless of age at the time of adoption, grapple with questions about their origins. This journey often starts with wanting to know where they came from, leading to deeper inquiries into their cultural background. Understanding one's heritage can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, especially when records are sparse or information is withheld.
Research indicates that adoptees may feel a disconnection from their biological roots, which may lead to a sense of loss affecting their self-perception. This challenge isn't trivial; it can lead to emotional struggles and affect their mental health. Factors like open vs. closed adoptions play a significant role. In settings where an open adoption is practiced–where biological parents maintain some contact–adoptees often find it easier to establish a stronger sense of identity, knitting together their past and present.
Navigating Family Dynamics
Family dynamics in adoptive households can be unique. Adoptive parents frequently face the challenge of helping their children feel integrated and secure while embracing their biological origins. The conversation often revolves around fostering an environment where adoptees feel comfortable expressing their feelings without fear of judgment.
For instance, adapting family traditions can help create a welcoming atmosphere. Celebrating significant dates, like the child's "adoption day," fosters a sense of belonging and acknowledges their distinct journey. Such practices deepen the bonds within the family and encourage the adoptee to embrace their identity rather than suppress it.
However, challenges lurk around every corner. Families may struggle with differing levels of openness regarding the child's background. Some parents might feel unequipped to discuss sensitive topics, thus leaving adoptees to wrestle with unanswered questions alone. Ultimately, ongoing communication and emotional support form the bedrock for navigating these complexities.
Accessing Birth Information
Accessing birth information is an elephant in the room for many adoptees in Argentina. The legal landscape surrounding birth records can be labyrinthine. In closed adoptions, where biological parents' identities are kept confidential, adoptees can face significant hurdles in obtaining any sort of information regarding their past. It’s akin to trying to unlock a door with no key.
The importance of making birth detailing accessible has garnered significant attention. Many adoptive families advocate for the importance of transparency. As policies evolve, there is hope that future reforms will prioritize the adoptees' rights to their own histories. In some cases, DNA testing and genealogical services have offered a lifeline for those seeking to piece together fragments of their past.
"The journey of an adoptee does not end at placement; for many, it is just beginning. Understanding one's roots is a timeless quest that echoes through generations."
Perspectives from Adoptive Families
The lens through which adoptive families view their experiences is critical in understanding the overall dynamics of adoption in Argentina. Adoptive families offer unique insights into the motivations, challenges, and triumphs that come with welcoming a child through adoption. These personal perspectives help to frame the conversation around adoption practices, highlighting both the complexities and the joys that accompany this life-changing decision.
Motivations for Adoption
When considering their path to adoption, families are often driven by a variety of motivations. Some may wish to provide a loving home to a child in need, while others might seek to expand their family through adoption when biological options are limited or not desired.
Common motivations include:
- Compassion for Vulnerable Children: Many families feel a strong urge to assist children who require stability and care. This altruistic drive can often lead them to the adoption process.
- Personal Experiences: Personal experiences with adoption or foster care can influence the decision. Individuals who grew up with adopted siblings or perhaps have gone through difficult circumstances themselves may see adoption as a natural extension of their values.
- Family Dynamics: The choice may stem from existing family dynamics. For some families, fostering an adopted child allows for a blending of cultures and backgrounds, enriching their family life.
Regardless of the driving factors, the decision to adopt is deeply personal and often tinged with emotion and optimism about the future.
Challenges Faced by Families
Adopting a child in Argentina can present multiple hurdles for families, reflecting both systemic issues and personal challenges. It's not just about paperwork; the emotional toll can be significant.
- Legal Complexities: Families often navigate through intricate legal frameworks that require patience and commitment. The process can be lengthy, and bureaucratic obstacles can arise unexpectedly.
- Social Stigmas: In many cases, adoptive families encounter societal misconceptions. They may hear questions reflecting bias or curiosity that can be difficult to manage, leaving emotional scars or a feeling of alienation.
- Integration into Family Life: The transition period can also be complex. Understanding how to incorporate an adopted child into existing family dynamics while being sensitive to their unique history requires effort and learning.
"Adoption is a journey, not a destination. It challenges you in ways you never expected, but the growth for all involved is profound."
Celebrating Diversity Within Families
Adoptive families often embody a rich tapestry of cultural backgrounds, experiences, and traditions, offering unique opportunities for celebration and growth. This diversity is not just a matter of ethnicity; it embodies a fusion of stories, customs, and worldviews.
- Cultural Heritage: Many adoptive families make purposeful efforts to honor the cultural heritage of their children. This can be through food, language, traditions, or participation in community events that celebrate their child’s origin.
- Different Family Forms: The embrace of various family forms and structures contributes to a stronger community fabric. Celebrating differences prepares children for a world rich in diversity.
- Educational Opportunities: Parents can utilize their child’s multicultural background as a learning tool. This enriches not only the child’s life but the entire family as they navigate new ideas and perspectives together.
Ultimately, adoptive families in Argentina showcase a resilience and a commitment that speaks to the beauty of creating lasting bonds despite varying backgrounds. Understanding their perspectives fosters a deeper appreciation for what adoption reveals about love, family, and society.
Reforming Adoption Practices
Reforming adoption practices in Argentina isn’t just about changing laws; it’s about reshaping the lives of countless children and families. As society evolves, so does the understanding of responsible parenting and the needs of children. The aim here is to modernize the adoption process to reflect current societal values and needs, ensuring that all children, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to grow up in supportive and loving homes.
When talking about reforms, a focus is often to boost transparency in the adoption process. Making changes here can foster trust and improve the experiences of all parties involved, including potential adopters, children, and the agencies facilitating the arrangements. Additionally, streamlined procedures are a vital part of these reforms. It simplifies the process for families eager to provide a home for a child while ensuring the child's best interests remain at the forefront.
Ongoing Legislative Changes
In recent years, there has been a significant push towards updating the laws surrounding adoption in Argentina. Legislative bodies are looking at ways to eliminate some of the bureaucratic red tape that often hampers potential adopters. This includes reviewing and potentially revising the National Adoption Law to better address current realities.
For example, consider the efforts made to align local adoption laws with the principles outlined in international treaties, such as the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption. This alignment aims to provide a uniform standard that protects children and maintains a focus on their welfare. Such legislative changes move beyond mere compliance; they send a clear message that the rights and needs of children are paramount.
Incorporating Best Practices
Understanding best practices from around the world can provide valuable insights into improving the adoption process in Argentina. Many countries have adopted family-centered approaches that prioritize the emotional well-being of both the adoptive families and the children. This includes comprehensive training for prospective adoptive parents, ensuring that they are well-equipped to meet the unique needs of their children.
Providing ongoing support services post-adoption is another aspect of best practices that can’t be overlooked. Counseling, workshops, and peer support groups have been shown to be incredibly beneficial. By helping families navigate any challenges that arise, this support fosters healthy family dynamics and improves outcomes for adopted children.
Advocacy and Public Awareness
Advocacy plays a crucial role in reforming adoption systems. Various organizations, both local and international, work tirelessly to promote awareness about adoption, highlight the needs of waiting children, and inform prospective parents about the adoption process. An empowered public can drive significant change.
For successful advocacy, it's also vital to create resources that are accessible and relatable. Campaigns that share the stories of adopted children often resonate deeply within communities, shifting perceptions and sparking conversations about adoption.
"Adoption is not just about finding a child for a family; it’s about creating a family for a child."
Such awareness can mitigate cultural stigma that might still exist regarding adoption. Ultimately, as public attitudes shift to embrace adoption more fully, it creates an environment where more families consider adopting, leading to a more stable and nurturing environment for children in need.
Future of Adoption in Argentina
Adoption practices in Argentina are at a crossroads, influenced by evolving societal attitudes, advancements in technology, and shifts in legal frameworks. Understanding the future of adoption in this country is essential, as it can highlight potential areas for improvement and innovation in the adoption process. Addressing these dynamics helps foster a more supportive environment for adoptees and their families, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.
Emerging Trends in Adoption
In recent years, several notable trends have emerged in the adoption landscape of Argentina. These trends can be attributed to changing societal views and advances in how the adoption process operates.
- Increasing openness in adoption: There is a growing recognition of the importance of maintaining connections to the birth family for adopted children. This understanding is leading families to pursue open adoptions more frequently, which create opportunities for ongoing communication between birth and adoptive families.
- Diversity in family structures: As societal norms shift, diverse family configurations are becoming more accepted. Single parents, LGBTQ+ couples, and extended family adoptions are now more prominent, challenging the traditional portrayal of adoptive families. This trend reflects a broader understanding of family bonds, where love and care distinguish a family more than conventional structures.
- Focus on post-adoption support: Adoptive parents are increasingly aware of the need for ongoing support services after an adoption is finalized. This includes access to counseling for parents, resources for understanding the unique needs of adopted children, and community networks that provide assistance and solidarity among adoptive families.
Role of Technology in Adoption Processes
The integration of technology into adoption practices is reshaping the way prospective parents navigate this journey. Several impactful changes can be observed:
- Digital platforms for information access: Online resources, such as government websites and non-profit organizations, provide valuable information on the adoption process, eligibility requirements, and available children. This accessibility helps demystify adoption and empowers families to make informed decisions.
- Social media’s influence: Social media platforms are playing a significant role in connecting both birth families and adoptive families. By sharing personal stories and experiences, individuals create awareness around adoption and encourage conversations about the challenges and rewards encountered in each unique journey.
- Virtual support groups: Many adoptive families are turning to digital forums for support and community building. These online groups allow parents to share insights, ask questions, and receive guidance from those with similar experiences, transcending geographical boundaries.
Potential Shifts in Social Attitudes
As societal values continue to change, the perception of adoption in Argentina is likely to evolve as well. These shifts may entail:
- Reduced stigma around adoption: Cultural attitudes towards adoption are gradually becoming more accepting. As public awareness around family diversity increases, stigma surrounding adoption lessens, enabling adoptive families to participate more openly in society.
- Educational initiatives: Schools and community organizations are beginning to implement programs aimed at educating children and adults about adoption. This education not only fosters understanding but also promotes empathy for adoptees and their families.
- Advocacy for policy change: Ongoing dialogue around the adoption process has prompted various advocacy efforts. These initiatives aim to reform outdated laws, ensuring that they reflect current societal values and meet the needs of children and families.
As the landscape of adoption continues to change, it is vital for stakeholders to stay engaged and informed. By understanding these emerging trends, adopting families, policymakers, and society can work together to ensure that the future of adoption in Argentina is inclusive, supportive, and reflective of the diverse families that make it up.
