“Laila? Where are you from?”
“New York.”
“And what’s the origin of your name?”
“It’s Arabic; my father is Muslim.”
“Oh, how… unusual!”
These exchanges have become so commonplace in my life that I’ve lost track of how often they occur. After I explain my name’s Arabic roots, I am often met with a knowing nod, as if the person suddenly comprehends that there must be a story or significance behind it. The frequent follow-up question, “Where are you from?” reveals an underlying assumption that a non-Anglicized name equates to an outsider status in the U.S. Despite my “ethnic” name, I have never traveled abroad.
When individuals learn that my father, who was born in Brooklyn, converted to Islam well before I was born, a lightbulb often goes off. It seems inconceivable to them that perhaps my parents simply liked the name. Growing up with a “distinctive” name can be challenging, but the complexities are often magnified for individuals of color.
Representation in Media
In season three of the show Mixed-Up, an entire episode highlights the struggles that black parents face when naming their children with names that resonate culturally. Dre, the father, is set on naming his newborn son DeShawn, but many around him express skepticism. With siblings named Zoe, AJ, and Bella, one wonders how DeShawn fits into that mix.
Bow, who has navigated life with her own unique name, is cautious for several reasons, including the harsh reality that names like DeShawn may hinder job prospects. This sentiment is echoed when Dre’s colleague, Charlie, admits that if he were on a plane with a pilot named DeShawn, he would consider getting off. This reaction is painfully familiar and highlights a broader societal issue regarding names perceived as ethnic.
Ultimately, the compromise is reached with the name DeShawn Matthew, providing a fallback option that sounds more “acceptable” to mainstream society. But why is DeShawn viewed with skepticism while names like Carter or Sullivan are typically embraced? The answer lies in cultural bias. Names like Carter are quickly deemed unique and trendy, while names like DeShawn or Jamar are labeled as “ethnic” and, thus, more representative of black culture.
The Impact of Name Bias
Research has shown that people with more traditional names tend to have better job prospects. A study by Marianne Bertrand and Sendhil Mullainathan, published in the National Bureau of Economic Research, demonstrated that resumes with white-sounding names were 50% more likely to receive callbacks compared to those with distinctly black names, regardless of the qualifications listed. This bias persists even when comparing resumes of equal quality, with white names receiving callbacks at a rate of 30% higher than their black counterparts.
As an adult with an ethnically distinctive name, I often ponder how much my name has affected my job prospects. During my search for a receptionist position in upscale neighborhoods such as Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, I submitted countless applications but received few interviews. I knew my qualifications were strong, yet I couldn’t help but wonder if employers preferred a name like “Lila” over “Laila.” Research and personal experience suggest that such biases exist.
Societal Assumptions and Stereotypes
We rarely reflect on how our assumptions about individuals are shaped by their names. A name like “Sky” might evoke thoughts of free-spirited individuals, while names like “Zolten” could lead to perceptions of eccentric parenting. Yet, when confronted with names like “Shanice,” immediate assumptions of socioeconomic status and background come into play. We are conditioned to associate these names with stereotypes, often inaccurately.
Parents should be free to choose unique names for their children without worrying about societal biases they may face. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that biases do exist, as evidenced by the experiences of many individuals who struggle to find employment despite being well-qualified. We cannot afford to ignore these realities.
Resources for Expecting Parents
For those navigating the journey of parenthood and considering names, resources like this article on artificial insemination kits can provide valuable insights. Additionally, for travel tips, this source offers excellent advice. For further information on pregnancy and home insemination, this site is a fantastic resource.
Conclusion
In summary, the name one carries can significantly influence life experiences, particularly regarding societal perception and opportunity. Awareness of these biases is vital in fostering a more inclusive environment for all.