Thank you for this Mukta! I love that your name means “pearl”. Pearls are symbols that beauty can come from irritation.
My birth name “Friederike” was changed when I was a child and immigrated here from the Netherlands. I am called “Didi”. I felt ashamed as a child and wanted a name that was recognisable to Americans.
I will not apologize for my name either! Thank you for this writing!
What a beautiful essay, Mukta! My middle name is Yoonsook and I remember being embarrassed at having an ethnic sounding name when I was growing up. Not until I met other people like me did I understand the importance of being different and unique. We need more acknowledgement of this in the world!
Thank you for sharing Susan! I can relate! I agree we need to continue to advocate, amplify and role model. It is an honor to work with you. One way I get to know my team is ask them to share the story of their name. I learn a lot. Thank you for your leadership and service.
Thank you for this Mukta! I love that your name means “pearl”. Pearls are symbols that beauty can come from irritation.
My birth name “Friederike” was changed when I was a child and immigrated here from the Netherlands. I am called “Didi”. I felt ashamed as a child and wanted a name that was recognisable to Americans.
I will not apologize for my name either! Thank you for this writing!
Warmly, Didi/Friederike
didirowland.com
Friederike, Thank you for your authentic reflection and kind words! Would love to learn the story of your name!
What a beautiful essay, Mukta! My middle name is Yoonsook and I remember being embarrassed at having an ethnic sounding name when I was growing up. Not until I met other people like me did I understand the importance of being different and unique. We need more acknowledgement of this in the world!
Thank you for sharing Susan! I can relate! I agree we need to continue to advocate, amplify and role model. It is an honor to work with you. One way I get to know my team is ask them to share the story of their name. I learn a lot. Thank you for your leadership and service.
Thanks for accepting me!