Intellectual Justice: Right to Knowledge About Origins

Sor Juana valued knowledge as a fundamental human right and a path to understanding oneself and the world. She resisted censorship and secrecy. Intellectual justice for adopted persons means the right to information about your origins—medical history, genetic heritage, birth family circumstances, cultural background. This knowledge is not luxury or privilege; it is foundational to understanding yourself fully. Some adoptees feel no need to search; intellectual justice doesn't mandate searching but protects your right to do so without shame or punishment. Some records are sealed by law; intellectual justice demands transparency and access. This concept frames adoption information not as psychological wound-opening but as intellectual integrity: you deserve to know your own history. Sor Juana's life demonstrates how knowledge—even difficult knowledge—expands human dignity. The right to your own story, including its origins, is a justice issue grounded in respect for your full humanity and intellectual capacities.