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Shirley Chung was just a year old when she was adopted by a American couple during 1966.

Born in the Korean peninsula, her biological father served of the American military, who went back soon after Shirley was born.

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

Approximately one year later, Shirley was welcomed into the home of a American pair, who brought her to Texas.

Growing Up American

Shirley grew up living a life similar to those of most young Americans.

"I moved and breathed and got in trouble like many American teenagers of the 80s. I'm a child of the 80s," Shirley says.

Shirley had children, entered matrimony and worked as a music instructor.

Life carried on for many years with little cause to question her US citizenship.

But then in 2012, her life was turned upside down.

Citizenship Crisis

She lost her government identification and needed a replacement.

However when she visited her government agency, Shirley was told she needed to prove her legal standing in the country.

"I had an emotional collapse after finding out I lacked citizenship," she explains.

Widespread Problem

This situation isn't unique. Approximations of how many American adoptees lack citizenship range from thousands to tens of thousands.

Numerous adopted individuals have been deported to their nations of origin in the past decade, according to advocacy groups.

Additional Account

Another woman, who requested anonymity for fear of attracting the attention of government officials, was adopted by an American couple from the Middle East in 1973 when she was just a toddler.

"I adapted to my existence, always understanding that I was a US national. That was what I learned. I still believe that today," she states.

Historical Context

For decades, international adoptions approved by legal systems did not automatically guarantee US citizenship.

The Children's Citizenship Law of 2000 made some headway in addressing this issue, granting automatic citizenship to international adoptees.

Present Concerns

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

Adoptee rights groups say they have been flooded with requests for help and some adoptees have gone into hiding.

"Following political outcomes were announced, it began increasing significantly with requests for help," said a legal professional working with adoption law.

Lacking National Identity

"At the end of the day, they don't care about your back story. They're not interested that you're legally here and it's merely documentation issues," she expressed.

"I frequently explain that one document of paper has essentially just ruined my life," she said.

"From my perspective right now, I feel stateless."

Possible Resolution

Despite adoptees being left in limbo for many years, legal experts believe it is just a case of legislative action that should gain bipartisan support from all political parties.

"This ought to be an uncomplicated solution: children through adoption should be equal to their biological siblings of guardians who were US citizens at the moment of their birth," said a legal advocate.

Final Plea

Shirley wishes she could meet with national leaders for a discussion, so she and others like her could explain their stories.

"I would ask him to show understanding. We're not illegal aliens," she said.

"We were placed on planes as little itty-bitty babies. Please listen to our accounts and honor with the promise that America made to every of the children that were brought here: US nationality."