Peoples’ reactions to using names from other cultures, especially the use of non-Caucasian names seems to be a mixed bag. I’ve seen responses on other forums ranging from indifference to it’s appropriation to appreciation. I’m not a [name_m]Pacific[/name_m] Islander, but I have a name from the culture because I was born on a [name_m]Pacific[/name_m] island. I’ve been told by some I shouldn’t use my name on my child because I’d be appropriating it and that it’s unacceptable. What are the thoughts of this forum on my situation specifically and in general?
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You should be able to use your own name on your child. Seems very odd for anyone to say differently.
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I believe most people’s issue is when people use names from marginalized groups for the sound or aesthetic without having any real connection to it. Your situation is different, since there’s a clear connection between the name and yourself / your child, so while I’m not a Pacific Islander and I can’t say this with absolute certainty, from an outsider’s perspective it seems fine to me!
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I guess it depends on whether you believe that names inherently belong to a certain group of people or that they should be free for anyone to use.
In any case, I don’t think it’s possible to appropriate your own name.
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In your case, I think it would be fine to use, especially since you were born there.
I seldom listen to what people say when I find it ridiculous.
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I was just born there. I’ve no [name_m]Pacific[/name_m] Islander ancestry.
Absolutely this.
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I think if you’ve been given a name as an honour, it’s then yours to do with what you wish! It makes perfect sense in this case.
I completely agree with this!
The guidelines that [name_u]Ive[/name_u] developed for my own use is if it is going to be disrespectful of a culture or belief then I avoid it. Also if its going to negatively affect my child (as in they will be harassed for my choice of name) I avoid it. Though its been my experience not many outside of the mother/baby name sites give much thought to the origin of a name. But if its not disrespectul or harmful I think its fine. And in this case I wouldnt hesitate as its your name.
You were born on a [name_m]Pacific[/name_m] island which is a very clear connection to those cultures. I can’t imagine what convoluted logic someone is using to claim you passing down your own name is appropriation. Ignore.
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I don’t have a super strong opinion on this, though I’d say the only time using a name from a culture you aren’t a part of is completely wrong is when someone is clearly romanticizing said culture or using it for clout in some way. As others have said, as long as you look into the history of the name and make sure there aren’t any issues I don’t see a problem.
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I agree with everything said above. [name_f]My[/name_f] middle name is [name_u]French[/name_u], and I have absolutely no [name_u]French[/name_u] ancestry. Neither does my husband and yet we intend to use it for our daughter. As far as I see it, it’s part of my name and I’d like it to be part of hers.
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