We have recently begun the adoption process. My husband and I are so excited. We will be adopting from an African country. I was wondering if there are any names we should avoid, names that may be unfavorable in certain ethnic groups. A few weeks ago there was a discussion about the name [name]Jemima[/name] being a poor choice for an African American child, prior to that discussion when I heard that name I thought of the [name]Beatrix[/name] [name]Potter[/name] character. I know this could spark heated discussion and that’s not really my intent. I was just wondering if anyone could offer some wisdom in this direction.
Definitely do not use [name]Jemima[/name] if you’re adopting and African girl, and especially if you’re Caucasian and living in [name]North[/name] [name]America[/name].
Anything related to negative racial histories, pretty much.
Gemma could be a better alternative.
I also love the sound of Behati, which is the Afrikaans for Beatrice ( and means “she who brings happiness” which is fitting for any child, but lovely for an adoption).
Why in the world would you rename a child who has lost literally everything else in their lives?
I assume she is counting on getting an un-named infant…
It’s not illigal, nor is it wrong. Many children want new names when they start their new life with their adopted families, especailly if they were placed up for adotion due to unpleasant circumstances. Every family is different, and for some, giving the child a new name is just another part of the adopting process.