Black History Month: What's in a Name?
We can all agree that names are important. For many, our names are chosen thoughtfully and considerately by our families and can give us a sense of belonging and connection. Some names are chosen because of their specific meaning or because they reflect a particular interest; some names are chosen to honour significant people such as family members, close friends or important role models; whereas other names are chosen because of tradition, family history or because they tell a story.
Names form part of our identities and can give us a sense of who we are; they can define us and can even help shape our personalities.
Names can also reflect our ethnicity, religion or culture; however, many young people feel pressured to change or adapt their names to make them easier for others to pronounce. Some young people have reported being overlooked in educational settings, as their tutors have avoided situations where they have needed to use the young people’s names or the young people have felt unable to correct those with authority’s continuous mispronunciation of their names due to the power imbalance between them. For these young people, this can leave them feeling invisible and disconnected or like they are not important or valued because others are not prepared to make the effort to learn how to say their names.
Research has shown that the brain actually “lights up” when someone hears their name spoken correctly. By taking the time to learn how to properly pronounce and spell others’ names, we are able to demonstrate and communicate respect and acceptance, not only to the individual but also to their heritage and family, enabling the person to feel cared for, celebrated and valued - something that we want for all of our young people.
Information taken from:
Black History Month Newsletter 2021 – What is in a Name?
Dr Jane Bryan, University of Warwick –
- 'Say my name' | Advance HE (advance-he.ac.uk)
- Say my name: the importance of correct terms, titles and pronunciation | THE Campus Learn, Share, Connect (timeshighereducation.com)