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Following the tragic events in Atlanta that claimed the lives of six Korean women, many have sought ways to stand in solidarity with the AAPI (Asian American Pacific Islander) community. While various initiatives exist, there are simpler actions you can take, especially if financial contributions aren’t feasible. One fundamental way to demonstrate respect is by making an effort to pronounce Asian names correctly. Although this might seem obvious, many people overlook the importance of this practice. Mispronouncing someone’s name can lead to unnecessary emotional distress.
Dr. Ranjana Patel, a psychologist at the Manhattan VA Medical Center and an adjunct professor at Teachers College, Columbia University, highlights that name-related microaggressions represent a significant issue. These can manifest as assigning nicknames without consent, making assumptions based on a name, or teasing related to cultural name elements. Dr. Patel’s research focuses on the impact of these microaggressions, particularly for individuals with South Asian names, informed by her own childhood experiences.
Xian Li, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Toronto, echoes Dr. Patel’s sentiments, stating that consistently mispronouncing ethnic names is a form of microaggression that implies a lack of worth. Neglecting to learn a person’s name sends a message that they are unimportant.
If you’re uncertain about how to pronounce someone’s name, don’t worry; it’s normal not to know everything. However, it’s crucial to make an effort to learn. Simply asking how to pronounce their name can go a long way. There’s no need to over-apologize; the person likely understands this situation. If you forget, it’s perfectly fine to ask again; they will appreciate your genuine effort.
Dr. Patel’s research indicates that those with ethnic names often experience anxiety around introductions, particularly with authority figures. Some individuals even alter their names to avoid the discomfort of mispronunciation, which highlights the pressure to conform to societal norms. It’s essential that Asian individuals shouldn’t feel compelled to change their names to fit in, yet many do. Recent studies reveal that nearly half of Chinese international students in the U.S. have adopted Anglicized names, often linked to lower self-esteem and well-being.
Nicknames can also be problematic, especially when they are imposed without consent. While some may choose a nickname for convenience, many individuals with Asian names find themselves given alternatives that disregard their identity. Bestowing a nickname without permission is a profound microaggression.
It’s imperative to never assign a nickname to someone without their approval. Make a dedicated effort to learn their real name first and gently inquire what they prefer to be called. Always respect their choice; many may not feel comfortable advocating for themselves.
Similar to adopting an Anglicized version of their names, individuals with Asian names often modify their names in writing. Research shows that nearly half of Asian and Black job applicants opt to change their names on resumes to eliminate ethnic markers, and those who do so are twice as likely to receive callbacks.
As a woman of color with an uncommon name, I understand the struggles faced by those with ethnic names. Many will remember the anxiety of a teacher stumbling over their name in class. Former educator Priya Mehta offers practical advice for teachers navigating these situations, suggesting practice and even incorporating games to help with pronunciation.
At this juncture, there’s no excuse for mispronouncing Asian names. Resources are available to assist in this effort. If in doubt, simply ask. Pronouncing someone’s name correctly is a sign of respect, something everyone deserves.
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Summary:
To support the Asian community, start by learning to pronounce their names correctly. Mispronouncing names can lead to emotional distress and is often perceived as a microaggression. Efforts to understand and use a person’s name properly can foster respect and inclusivity. Encouragingly, resources and guidance are available to help individuals navigate these interactions in a respectful manner.