Introduction:
Names have a fascinating way of shaping our perceptions and understanding of the world around us. Whether it’s the cities we inhabit, the people we encounter, or even the labels we use for ourselves, names carry significance beyond their mere phonetic sounds.
In this blog post, we delve into the realm of names, exploring their impact on identity, allegiances, and respect, particularly within the context of transgender individuals who choose to embrace new names.
The City of Names:
Cities, much like people, have names that evolve over time. London, for example, traces its roots to the Roman name Londinium, while Moscow’s origins lie in the river Moskva, named by the Muroma people as Mustajoki, meaning “Black River.” The pronunciation of these names might seem inconsequential, but during times of conflict, the choice of pronunciation can subtly reveal allegiances. Names, it appears, extend far beyond mere labels—they become markers of identity and history.
Allegiances and Respect:
Just as city names can indicate allegiances, personal names carry profound implications. Referring to the monarch of the United Kingdom as Charles Windsor might be technically accurate but could signal disdain for the monarchy. The power of names lies not only in their ability to identify but also in their capacity to convey one’s stance on a particular person or thing. A delicate balance between accuracy and respect emerges as we navigate the intricacies of naming conventions.
The Transcendent Power of Name Changes:
For transgender individuals, choosing a new name represents a powerful act of self-affirmation. Much like the Diné people, who refer to themselves as such despite being known as Navajo, trans individuals reclaim their identity through endonyms—names they choose for themselves. This act transcends beyond linguistic labels; it’s a declaration of autonomy and self-definition.
Respecting Endonyms in the Trans Community:
Recognising the importance of endonyms versus exonyms becomes crucial when engaging with transgender individuals. The blog features anecdotes from prominent figures like Sting, Lady Gaga, and Pope Francis, who have asserted their right to be addressed by the names they’ve chosen. Respecting these choices becomes a matter of acknowledging the autonomy and dignity of each individual, irrespective of their birth-assigned names.
Exonyms vs. Endonyms:
The distinction between exonyms and endonyms is highlighted, emphasising that what one chooses to call themselves holds more weight than what others may label them. Germans are called Alemanes in Spain, Tiska in Denmark, and “Nemtse” in Russia, but these names do not reflect how Germans identify themselves. This concept extends to the trans community, where acknowledging chosen names fosters a culture of respect and understanding.
Becoming: A New Start, A New Name
The power of names goes beyond mere identification; it encompasses personal evolution, transformation, and the assertion of one’s identity. Actors adopting stage names, women taking their husband’s last names, or individuals earning the title of “Doctor” all illustrate the significance of names in shaping our lives. A name change often signifies a new start, a new chapter—one that deserves recognition and respect.
Consider Mother Teresa or Pope Francis; calling them by their birth names could diminish their convictions, faith, and life’s work. Similarly, when a woman marries, addressing her by her chosen name and title is not just a matter of formality but a gesture of respect for her chosen path. The transition from one name to another is a journey of self-discovery, a symbolic shedding of the old and an embrace of the new.
The poignant story of Muhammad Ali underscores the power of a name in personal and social contexts. Ali’s adoption of his chosen name reflected a profound journey involving personal beliefs, civil rights, social justice, and a defiance of white supremacy. His insistence on being addressed by his chosen name, especially in the face of harassment, became a symbol of resilience and self-determination.
Prince, too, challenged the norms by adopting an unpronounceable symbol as his name. His decision was not merely an artistic choice but a strategic move to assert his independence from record labels, seeking ownership of his masters, better compensation, and creative freedom. Prince’s bold choice to retire his name for five years allowed him to reinvent himself, inspiring subsequent generations of artists to fight for control over their creative work.
Transition: When a friend or loved one chooses a new name
As we grow attached to people, we also become attached to the names by which we know them. The attachment can lead to possessiveness or territorial feelings, especially when faced with a friend or loved one undergoing a name change. The discomfort often arises from a sense of entitlement to have a say in the matter. But is it really our decision to make?
Empathy and curiosity are key when someone close decides to change their name. Understanding the reasons behind the decision—whether it’s autonomy, self-agency, or pursuing what they love—can foster a deeper connection and respect for their journey. The Washington NFL team’s recent name change to Commanders serves as a reminder that even large organisations face scrutiny and challenges when altering established names, highlighting the need for thoughtful consideration.
What if you have doubts transgender people are valid?
Amid debates surrounding transgender rights, it’s crucial to recognise the deliberate, multi-million-dollar propaganda campaigns that seek to influence public opinion. Questioning the validity of transgender individuals often stems from misinformation perpetuated by such campaigns. Pausing to consider the motivations behind doubts and approaching the matter with open-mindedness can contribute to a more informed and compassionate dialogue on transgender issues.
Conclusion:
In the tapestry of human existence, names are threads that weave intricate stories of identity, resilience, and autonomy. Whether embracing a new name as an actor, a spouse, a doctor, or a transgender individual, the act of choosing one’s name is a powerful declaration of self.
As we navigate the complexities of names and transitions, let empathy guide us, recognising that each name change signifies a unique journey—a journey worthy of understanding, respect, and celebration. After all, in the symphony of life, every (trans) rose by any (new) name adds its own melody, contributing to the rich and diverse harmony of human experience.