It is worth 100 points. (remember: reason and decorum! Everyone in all three Journalism classess will be reading these.Crime terms are being handed out in class today. Make sure to get a copy.
New Zealand sees no Justice in quirky baby names
Name among those most commonly refused by registrars in the past 10 years along with Lucifer, King, Princess and Prince
Peter Walker
guardian.co.uk, Friday 6 January 2012 18.39 GMT
Under New Zealand law babies’ names cannot be offensive, too long or contain religious references. Photograph: Cristian Baitg/Getty Images
You can perhaps understand why officials in New Zealand might think that naming a newborn baby Lucifer is not giving it the fairest start in life. But why, as new statistics show, did they prevent 49 sets of parents from calling their child Justice, a not uncommon name in parts of Africa?
Justice was the name most often refused by New Zealand registrars in the 10 years to last June, the country's department for internal affairs said. Next on the list came Princess, with 24 thwarted attempts, King (21) and Prince (20).
Under New Zealand law babies' names cannot be offensive, too long – 100 characters is the limit – or contain religious references, which put paid to six planned little Lucifers. They are also not allowed to be self-declared titles, a clause which accounted for the Justices, lest they be confused for real judges, as well as the mini-royals. The rule also covers spelling variants, meaning Justus and Juztice were also turned down.
The only other rule breached in the top 10 was that on single-letter names – six parents chose J.
Further down the list, which was released alongside a far more sober roundup of most popular registered children's names during 2011 – Liam for boys, Ruby for girls – the ideas become even more unexpected.
Three parents chose Messiah, six lots of Roman numeral fans tried I, II or III, while one each opted for an asterisk symbol, a full stop and a "/" symbol, and one baby girl avoided being landed with Queen Victoria.
Even luckier escapes were in store for youngsters otherwise facing a life explaining that their names really are Mafia No Fear, V8, Anal or 89.
Ross McPherson, deputy registrar general for the internal affairs department, said no specific names were banned, even if officials might feel they are potentially embarrassing for the child.
"In general terms, people can register whatever names they like for their children. However, some rules do apply," McPherson said. "A name can be rejected if it might cause offence to a reasonable person, or if it is, includes or resembles an official rank or title, or if it is unreasonably long. So, one couldn't, for example, register a swear word as a name for their child or couldn't, without adequate justification, register a name of Justice, Colonel or Royal."
Some parents, it seems, are devising ever-more cunning ways to express their views. Despite debate over whether it should be permitted, 84 babies were registered last year as Nevaeh, or heaven spelled in reverse, making it the 45th most popular girls' name.
The issue of unusual names created headlines in 2008 when a New Zealand judge placed a nine-year-old girl in court guardianship so she could change her name from Talula Does the Hula From Hawaii. In a potential lesson to similarly minded parents, the court heard how the girl told people her name was K to avoid being teased.
The judge, Rob Murfitt, cited a series of other blocked names – which never made the official statistics and were thus presumably barred at an earlier stage – including Sex Fruit, Keenan Got Lucy and Yeah Detroit.
Melissa Jensen-Stewart
ReplyDeleteMs. Parker
Article Response
10 January 2012
In the past ten years, the officials of New Zealand have decided to deny some parents certain names to their children, due to vulgarity and potential embarrassment of the child. One girl named Talula Does the Hula From Hawaii, was taken under court custody and called “K” to avoid being teased by others. On one side, the New Zealand officials are doing the right thing, on the other side, they’re completely wrong. Parents should be able to name their children what ever they wish, within reason. New Zealand should be able to not allow children to be named certain things, within reason. The parents are right to be able to name their children after religious figures, and political ranks, however they are not right to name their child something embarrassing or vulgar. Such as curse words, sentences, and other socially unacceptable names. (i.e. If you live in a society strongly built on Christianity, you should not name your child Lucifer, in regard to the child’s mental health.) The New Zealand officials are doing a good job filtering out these types of names from their country, making it a better place to live in for the children of this era.
By Shanelle Clark, A person in their right mind should never name their child "Talula Does the Hula From Hawaii", "Sex", "Fruit" etc. They are setting their child up for depression. What child could live happily knowing everyday someone will be talking about how ridiculous their name is? The child will be too ashamed to share their name with others. Every name in New Zealand should be approved or disapproved before being accepted for the sake of the children. The child may have trouble with finding jobs and being chosen for things simply because their name is a bad look. It gives them a chance to be judged before even communicating with someone.
ReplyDeleteIn agreement to Shanelle's comment, I also dont think that adults who are mentaly stable would think of such ridiculous names for a baby. I wonder what laws New Sealand has on drugs aswell.
DeleteMany people in the United States choose to name their children absurd names and call them "unique." The only thing that they are doing by naming their children this is setting them up to be teased. The New Zealand laws were created to help children have a name that they will not be ashamed of. Children, with bad names, grow up hating their names and are self-conscious about it. This does not go away when they grow up. As Adults, they still have the embarrassment. Weird names are very much remembered in job interview, but most times it is the name that is only remembered. Names are the first thing people learn about you. What kind of impression would you make if your name was “Talulac Does the Hula From Hawaii.”
ReplyDeletePersonally, a presentable name isn’t hard to find; so it’s difficult to understand why some parents go out of their way to give their kids outlandish names. A name is typically one of the first things you find out about a person; so if it has a crude, absurd, or sacrilegious meaning it can give a negative impression of their parents (“Were they high or drunk when they gave the name? What kind of household did this person grow up in?”), or what’s wrong with the person for not changing their name the first chance they got?
ReplyDeleteThe substance of a person’s character isn’t strictly dictated by their name, but it gives an impression of the lifestyle they’re coming from; especially stereotypes concerning religion and demographic. Also, a name is hopefully made to promote a positive message towards a person’s life; more than fitting in with ‘normal’ people around them.
For the purpose of decorated propriety, it’s agreeable that certain authoritative titles should only be given when earned (Justice, Colonel, or Jesus). Names carry a stature that needs to be commendable and that the child can grow into throughout their life. No matter what country, names can affect the presence and mark a person has on others.
This is Jenee Skinner.
ReplyDeleteAsia Vanderveen
ReplyDeleteThe rule in New Zealand that baby names cannot be offensive, too long or contain religious references, I do not agree with the length or the offensiveness rule. Personally I feel that a parent should have a free will of naming their child whatever they please. But however, I do agree with the choice of naming their child Lucifer, only because that can deem the child’s future.
According to the article, Justice was a common name that parents wanted to name their child, but had been turned down, because of the confusion of real judges; I do not agree with that decision, because the word Justice is a word with more than one meaning and can be used and other ways. General McPherson also stated that names can be disapproved if it is offensive to the common person, I disagree with this because everyone thinks different, and what might be offensive to some people, it might mean something else to another.
JaQuana's response :
ReplyDeleteI believe that a name is a parents right to express how they want to. A parent should be able to name their kids Justice, or Queen if it's their desire. I also think that there should be restrictions. For example names that are hard to pronounce and write can make things hard for the child in life. They may more often than not have people mess up their names and that can be embarrassing. I also agree that they people shouldn’t have sexual names, or the ability to acquire curse words into names. That can also cause big problems, and controversy for the child. Those should really be the only restrictions name wise for parents. However it is the parent’s choice if they want to name their children religious. There are many ways that a parent can get around restrictions such as those in New Zealand. They can as shown in the article spell Heaven backwards to get Nevaeh, name them something that sounds like it, or they can spell it very different. At the end of the day there are names far worse than those that are too long, contain religious names, self- declared, and offensive to some.
Shaundrana says: One of the first things you learn about a person when you meet them for the first time is their name. Now think about it nowadays when we meet people with names such as "Hennesey" or "PoloDon" we're already assuming things about them and normally it's not good. New Zealand should in a way approve and disapprove names for new born babies just for the sake of the child. No child should ever be ashamed of their name but at the same time they should be able to enjoy it. Having a child named "Talula Does the Hula From Hawaii" can bring so much judgement upon him or her. Names can make or break you in this community of ours.
ReplyDeleteThis is very shocking to me, A name is very important to a person that's what people know you by I can't believe that parents would name there child something stupid. I definatley disagree with this. It's not right to the children to have embarrsing names. A parent should never be able to name a child such thing. It's ridiculius your setting your child up bullying,teasing,etc. it's just not good for the child. That's the first thing parents should think about knowing how people are going say your name , or see it on a job application and Sex Fruit should not be one.
ReplyDeleteAmahtala says: I feel like the parents should have the right to choose what their child name should be, but if it's something ridiculous that could effects the child’s future, then someone should intervene. Not telling things what to name their child, but warning them of what could happen in the long run. Every parent should want their child to stand out with a “unique” name, but there should be a limit because “Sex Fruit” is just going waaaay overboard. That child could never have a chance of getting a god job.
ReplyDeleteLatriece says: Although it sounds really bizarre to put restrictions on someone naming their child whatever they want, it also gives the children their own right. No one ever thinks about the child in the situation. These restrictions work both ways. It takes away the freedom of the parent but gives hope for the child. With a name like Talula Does the Hula from Hawaii, this sets a child up for a realistic miserable life growing up with a name where the parents obviously didn’t think about their child first. The restrictions are like most suppressing laws, there to do well but are abused. They are there to cease any confrontation or problems caused by offending or making someone feel some type of way about something as simple as a name. No one can say that the restrictions won't prevent someone of being judged by their name and be categorized in the shallow society we live in today. People of this “so liberal” world today assume anything that restricts someone of a right to be bad. New Zealand in my opinion is limiting bullying, and building self-esteem. I mean have we all forgotten elementary school? This also helps re iterate parents from making a mistake at naming their child something that sounded cool or sweet during that time but they will regret it when picking up their child’s second birthday cake and their name is misspelled and they have to be at the party with in a half an hour. The restrictions simply give people a second chance at fixing or changing something permanent, their rarely given in life so people should not have anything to complain about.
ReplyDeleteNewton Watson
ReplyDeleteAlthough I believe that parents should have the freedom to name their child, I do not oppose New Zealands idea of putting limits and restrictions on baby names. Per say if your name was long and unusul like "Talula Does the Hula From Hawaii" people would not want to write that down if they ever wanted to copy your information, or say it out loud if they need to get your attention. The same goes for offensive or vulgar names that would cause controvesy if put in content or other media. On the other hand of this issue I don't believe names like "Justice" or other self declared titles would ever be an issue or cause confusion. In the United States I have yet to see an issue where someone with a name like "Messiah" has caused an uproar to the point where the name would be banned.
said...
ReplyDeleteKaris Says: i feel that its the parents being ignorant to name their children with embarrassing, inappropriate and vulgar names. why would you scar your child for life with those type of titles? they could be enabling their child to do certain things in life with just the little mistake of having a embarrassing name. personally i feel that when you began to name your children things like "Talula Does the Hula From Hawaii, Sex Fruit, Keenan Got Lucy and Yeah Detroit" you beginning to take your child as more of a joke and less seriously. parents are smart enough to give their child a nice presentable name.
Even though i think its ignorant, i don’t think anyone should have the authority or be able to dictate to a person what they can and cannot name their child. many names can be for religious reasons or because its a family name that had been wanted to be reused, but New Zealand registrars wont allow that which i feel should not be their place to decide.
Jessica Minllety
ReplyDeleteBaby name response
Names identify, who we are as people, and makes use the uniqueness of the parent. Simply put banning certain names, causes great controversy. What is the purpose of banning a name? , maybe it is mainly aimed at parents that create a name for the purpose of shock value. Banning these names are not the way to go, simply because most names are heartfelt and thought out by the parent, and are not meant to be controversial. It is the parents right, it is their child. The principle of the controversial names can probably be traced back to an angered parent, or a parent that was trying to prove a point. Some of these names welcome teasing from peers and even family members. According to Wikipedia, there is a person named Dick assman. Yeah I guess you get lots of attention and laughter from people, but the name is very vulgar, and inappropriate for a child. Names like Lucifer, Queen Victoria are two names that actually signify something; Lucifer does not entirely represent the devil. And Queen Victoria does not necessarily refer to the actual queen. Only vulgar and nasty names should be banned, and length should not be a concern.
Tatiana Williams.
ReplyDelete“Gwyneth Paltrow names her kid Apple. I'm not going to let that stand.”
-Kathy Griffin
The gift of name is a right that ought to be inalienable and granted to every parent. One thing that may sound crazy or absurd to you might mean something beautiful or special to someone else. Why should government be capable of structuring the names that parents give to their children? This is a form of control and conformity that could possibly get out of hand, for instance all boys must be named Bob and all girls must be named Sally, when do we cut off this infringement of rights?
As for the argument that these seemingly “absurd” names are embarrassing for the child, then we ought to evaluate the psyche and parenting skills of EVERY parent because it is virtually impossible to save EVERY child from being teased because their name is Sex Fruit or D*** Dumba**. McPhersom says that one of the regulations applied is that, “A name can be rejected if it might cause offence to a reasonable person…” How do we define reasonable? If reasonable is to be defined by one of its meanings as equitable it would be ultimately impossible to set this as a regulation seeing how everyone has different perspectives, values, minds, etc. In closing we must remember it is the person that defines the name, not the name that defines the person.
Nell Rus
ReplyDeleteIn most cases it should not matter what a parent names their child. It is one of their freedoms and they have a right to name choice. But certain names will definitely cause offence for many like Sex Fruit or Lucifer. Not only will these names cause offence for people such as very religious people, or different groups of people but some kids might chose to live up to their chosen name. Like if a child is named Mafia no Fear, he or she might choose to commit acts of violence. If names are provacative the child will be teased and tormented for something that isn't their fault. Names that intice violence, discrimination, and obscenity should be banned from being branded on a child. As long as parents obey these restrictions they can do whatever they want with their child's name.
Helene says,
ReplyDeleteWOW! Who would name their child "Sex Fruit" or “Mafia Has No Fear”? If this is what is happening then I do not blame New Zealand for applying some rules on your child's name during registry in the least bit. Naming your child absurd names such as that will ruin their future. Do parents not realize that having a baby is a serious thing? They are human beings just as you are. These parents should look ahead and think what it would be like to be named “Keenan Got Lucy” and how embarrassing it would be for them. You are more likely to get hired at a job with the name Emily than the name Princess. I feel that people should be free to name their child whatever they like, it is their right, and it is their child. However in retrospect people who are ignorant enough to name their child after a body part shouldn’t be having children in the first place. It makes the parent look ridiculous and as well making the child look imprudent. Yes, this new law oppresses parents a right, however a bad name oppresses a child for a lifetime. Outlandish names, though memorable, may give someone a bad reputation, especially in a world that judges a book by its cover. Win for New Zealand.
Nyesha McKinney: The law is for the benefit of other people. However there is some guidelines that should be addressed. The understanding of not naming babies things that are disrespectful to others such as Lucifer, or Satan is understandable. But saying you cannot name a person referenced to the bible is not fair. People are now tired of common names and and want t make things up. Or use creativity. Many names are in the bible such as James, Joesph, Mary ect. Naming babies such as Talula Does the Hula From Hawaii is just unacceptable and the parents must realize the power that they name their child and in their future I feel people should just be civilized, name appropriate names and remember its not just about themselves, but the child.
ReplyDeleteJamie Vanhouter, I feel that it's alright to have a different name then most because it's unique but taking it to far sometimes is just pure ridiculousness. Ignorance is a bliss so to give one an ignorant name for instance surely may make them known and/or noticed more but through my eyes it would never be in a good way. A parents right to name their child is a gift but is not to be abused upon. What may seem beautiful to one may not seem the same to others there fore when naming a child i believe it should be a long evoked process down to every last detail. The name a parents may name a child may not affect them through their parents eyes but to others may just seem as just something to be toyed with upon the child. I believe a unique name could be something like London or Cherish because it has a calm smooth tone to with a beauty to the name rather then an ignorant and/or somewhat average name. Also a unique name could be a great thing if not taken to far because of the fact that it could symbolize or resemble something or somewhat important on life.
ReplyDeleteMaggie Easton
ReplyDeleteA baby's name is a parents choice, but the child has to live with the name and whatever connotation it entails. Naming a baby is a very personal experience and parents have many creative and meaningful names. In New Zealand, there are precautions to keep the names reasonable. For example, names like Sex Fruit or 89 are rejected. Some people may feel that this is restricting the freedoms of parents, but in another way New Zealand is protecting the freedom of the newly born child. New Zealand is not trying to make everyone conform to boring names, but rather curtail naming a child to get attention. In the end it's an innocent child who has to live with a name like Yea Detroit and deal with the embarrassment from a choice they had no say in. This law will not affect most parents who plan and put thought in the naming process, but it would prevent parents naming their child just to create controversy. A child's name can be unique and beautiful but not controversial and offensive. This law in New Zealand will promote putting thought behind naming a child. A baby's name should be something that it can grow old with.
Maddy says:
ReplyDeleteA baby’s' name is what makes it unique. There are many names with many meanings. One name that sounds weird to somebody may be very meaningful to somebody else. Parents should have the freedom to name their children what they want because what they name their child can be based on religion and meaning. In a way I agree with New Zealand's law to ban certain names that are absurd because if a parent does not have the common sense to realize a name like Sex Fruit or Yea Detroit is an unreasonable name then there should be a stop to it. This might cause them to be embarrassed and not tell anyone their real name. People always judge based on someone's name. If they had a name that was sexual or hard to pronounce you automatically assume how they are as a person. The New Zealand law should not ban religious names because they describe a person’s family background. On the other hand offensive, hard to pronounce, and long names should be banned because it could cause controversy and set the child up for judgment. For a job interview or college applications, the first thing they see is a person’s name. An unreasonable name may cause a person to have less of a chance of getting a job or into a college. Parents should not set up their kids for failure.
“Talula Does the Hula from Hawaii” is the dumbest name I have ever heard. If a parent wants to name their child something so stupid they probably aren’t fit to have a child. I’m all for freedom to pick your own child’s name but there should be guidelines. The 100-character limit on names is a good idea, but maybe 100 characters is still a little long. 50 characters or even 20 would be a better idea. Also not being able to have symbols like “/” as a name is a good idea because that will just be torture for your child. They will go through so much ridicule and no one would ever know how to say the kid’s name, including the kid himself. Even though some people may be offended by the name Lucifer, it’s much more normal than the other examples given in this article. Not naming a baby a certain name because it has a biblical significance is stupid, too. Some names are just pretty and the parent might not care about the reference to the bible, they may just like the name. I think parents should have the freedom to name their babies to a certain extent. If the child is going to be humiliated because of the name then that is just wrong. I don’t think the government should be able to say what people can name their own children, but their should definitely be some rules. If people don’t have the maturity to name their babies a real name and not something stupid that they think is funny, then there needs to be more strict rules and people cant even complain, because it’s their own fault by naming their babies something dumb.
ReplyDeleteWade Walker
ReplyDeleteIn my un-professional opinion, I find it inexplicable on why some parents name their children strange names. I mean that child will have to live the rest of their life with that name. My cousin just had a daughter with the name of Astronica. Yes, that is a unique name, but I could never let my own child live with a name like that. She’s only a few weeks old, and I already heard my aunt call her “Astro.”
Besides my family, and their weird names like Gardner, Sheila, Wade, Levi, and Colton, I have heard some odd names. For example, I have heard:
-Shithead (Pronounced “Shi-th-eed”)
-Awasha and Adrya (Twins that lived on my street that are named after a washer and a dryer)
-Kaw (some kid on my street)
-Roofen (Ex-friend)
-Jokiah (very close friend)
-Kimbertina (Roofen’s sister. “Kimberly” and “Tina” combined)
-Adolph Blaine Charles David Earl Frederick Gerald Hubert Irvin John Kenneth Lloyd Martin Nero Oliver Paul Quincy Randolph Sherman Thomas Uncas Victor William Xerxes Yancy Zeus Wolfeschlegelsteinhausenbergerdorff (Goggled “longest name in the world, and this came up)
Sometimes, I believe that some parents just hate their kids. They say they want their child’s name to be unique. But they are TOTALLY wrong. They are just ridiculous and laughable.
Carlos Feliciano
ReplyDeleteWell at first I was a little confused that there were actual guidelines for naming children, but as I continued to read I was shocked to see the many names people were coming up with. Names like “V8” or ”Sex Fruit” were never names I would imagine any human would have. The 100-word character limit also got me thinking, I’m still wondering if anyone actually tried to make a name with over 100 characters and why? I almost feel that some of these parents just hate their kids and want them to get picked on for the rest of their lives. When naming kids its one thing to be creative and make something “unique” but “Talula Does the Hula From Hawaii” although very unique, is a little too ridiculous. Honestly I’m pretty upset these names exist but people are crazy I guess.
Nautica Graham
ReplyDeletePersonally I believe that names SHOULD have some kind of restriction on them, because parents absolutely give their child no chance in life with unreasonably ghetto, long, or just simply unreasonable names. Growing up, parents instill in their children (my parents anyways) that tattoos and ghetto names will give you a slim chance in making it in the corporate world. Parents who give their children ghetto, inappropriate names have no dreams for their children, and no goals that they wish to see their child reach. Names such as Shaniqua, Bowquesha, Dipity Dooda, Blue, and etc. should be banned, because they are ghetto. These children should be given names they can grow old with, a name that won’t get ridiculed or criticized by anyone. On the other hand everyone shouldn’t have a common name either. For instance, Brianna, Christopher, Alexis, etc. People need to think about what they name their babies, and their futures. People shouldn’t shoot their child down before they have a chance. People should have a right to name their child what ever they want, but as long as it’s reasonable. I don’t think there should be a restriction on names like, Justice, Royal, Prince, or King, but on outrageous names that totally make no sense. (If I offended anyone I’m sorry… Just speaking my mind)
Shayla Sanders
ReplyDeleteAs a parent, naming your child should be something you take very seriously because your child is going to have to live with that name for the rest of their life. Your name should somehow fit your personality so I think parents should really think twice about naming their child Anal, unless they want everyone to think their child is an a**.
At first glance it seems pretty unfair to take away a parent’s right to name their child at their own free will but quite frankly some parents don’t have the maturity to raise a child, let alone care about how devastating a name like “Ryder Like a Bus” will be for that child. Not only will this child never be able to obtain a job in the business world, they will constantly be teased in school. What if this child becomes suicidal from all the constant teasing? You just killed your child.
So yes, New Zealand may be acting a little over aggressive by excluding names like Justice and Prince but their definitely doing a lot of children a huge favor by preventing names like “Devin Got Lucky ;)”
Marissa Santana
ReplyDeleteMs. Parker
Article 1 Response
10 January 2012
This article touches base on the different names that people can name their child. I believe that deciding a name for your child takes a matter of time. The child is going to have to live with this name for their whole life, or at least until it is the legal age for a child to change their name.
When the article states that people might not want to name their child Lucifer because you are not giving them a fair start. I think that, this situation is true. Knowing where the name comes from and that the name is referring to the devil; you don’t want to think of your child as if they were the devil or if anything that they do is due to their name.
I feel that when a parent is deciding a name for their child I think that they need to think long and hard about the name. I don’t think that people should just think of the name right then and there when their child is born. I think that they need to make sure that the name that they have decided for their child they will be able to pronounce it, spell it and not get made fun of it. When the article states that there is a limit of how many characters can be in a persons name I think that it is true. I don’t think that they should name their child a name with 60 characters unless it is including their whole name from first, middle to last name. I also do not think that the government should have the right to tell a parent what they can name their child. You never know if the name is a personal meaning or if it is something that they really want to name their child. I just think they all parents should think twice before they give their child their name.
Olivia Monin – I think that New Zealand is on to something with their laws about naming children. Parents should not be able to name their kids anything they want because it affects them throughout their childhood and, if they don’t change it when they are of age, their life. It is understandable that parents may want their child’s name to be ‘unique’ or ‘different’, but it makes sense that there are restrictions. Names cannot be offensive, too long, or contain religious reference. But the last restriction I do have a problem with. Many people have strong religious beliefs and name their children after people in the Bible, the Koran, etc. There are countless names from the Holy Bible, so many that you couldn’t possibly constrain all of them! I feel that the registrars should look over every child’s name that comes through, and investigate why the parents would want to name their kids that if it’s something ridiculous. After considering the parents motives, they should deem whether the name can be used or not, to prevent that child from a life of mockery and laughter.
ReplyDeleteReading this article, I think any logical, sane person would agree that there are limits to what a human being’s name should be. It is not fair that a child has to go through one of the hardest times of their life, high school, and experience ridicule because of their name. One of the responsibilities of a parent is to consider a child’s welfare. They cannot fulfill their job description while giving their child a name like “V8” or “Tula Does the Hula”. Not only is it embarrassing but also stupid. Giving names like these makes me question the character of the parents and if they really want their child to succeed in life. How can anyone be taken serious with a name like “Sex Fruit”? More importantly how can anyone get a job in the corporate world?
ReplyDeleteI believe that New Zealand registrars have a valid point not accepting certain names. However, where I don’t agree with them is not accepting names that portray a higher level of power like “Princess” or “King”. Names like these can instill confidence and esteem in the child at an early age so that ridicule and embarrassment will not affect them. There should be some restriction to names but not so much that it takes away from the creativity and uniqueness of an individual’s identity.
Initially, like many others, I was confused as to why there was a law prohibiting parents from naming their children fairly common names in modern society. Although I could understand barring the likes of Lucifer (as per respecting sensitivity in regards to religion), I found myself unable to understand why the likes of Prince or Justice were barred. However, as I continued to read the article, it became increasingly distressing to see the lengths at which parents were willing to bend the rules to give their children “unique” names.
ReplyDeleteAlthough I can see how a single lettered first name could be semi-acceptable, names such as “V8” or “Yeah Detroit” are unacceptable; with the increasingly competitive nature of the modern world’s job market, and the overall “dog eats dog” nature of the world, these children would be severely impaired in the long run. While something as small as a name may seem trivial, it is more or less the first things employers see about an individual on their resume. It is what they judge a person on before even reading about their life accomplishments or education record, and will be their first impression of the person. By giving children names such as these, it leaves them at a high risk of being judged before they even make it out of the gate.
While I feel as though New Zealand should not restrict names such as Justice or Prince, I do not have too much of a problem with them restricting names such as “Yeah Detroit”.
When you first read the article, the hardest thing is letting go of your own personal bias. Brought up living in the U.S., we often forget how important our First Amendment rights are to us. The article provided for us is taken from the perspective of a country and culture different from ours; New Zealand after all is not the United States of America.
ReplyDeleteWith that said, the government of New Zealand has every right to place baby name restrictions, no matter how harsh this may seem to U.S. citizens. New Zealand isn’t the only one laying down the law. Many countries across the world have name restriction laws established, including places like Israel and Poland. From the global perspective, some might even consider the lack of U.S. baby name restrictions to be repulsive. After all, name restrictions do prevent names like La-A, Talula Does the Hula From Hawaii, and Sex Fruit from entering circulation.
But on the flip side, don’t parents deserve the right to name their own child? The argument of “I brought you into this world, so I can be as creative as I want” might as well work here. However, for the sack of the “unfortunate” child there really is no good answer. An interesting question to be answered might then be this, “Do unborn and newborn babies deserve protection under the law to eventually like their own name?” Or you could answer this question, “Should the government, hospitals, baby birthers, etc. have the right to do background, drug, and mental health checks on people planning on having kids?” Where do the rights of the parents come into all of this?
In the midst of such a heated topic, our own naming traditions seem to lock us into personal bias. So, how do we set ourselves free? Analyze the word ‘free.’ You might just find the best solution to all of this, made in making the fee for changing your name, “free of charge.”
So the term crazy gets thrown around alot but it doesnt belong in this instint. When a man and a woman name their child they name it based n how they feel. The name they choose for their child represents who they will be for the rest of their life. In America things tend to be a little bit looser becuase this is America the land of the free. My mom named me Emil which is a pretty crazy. It has like 30 diffrent meanings but I feel it difines me as a person. Now these families in New Zealand definatly are being deprived of a right. I do agree that some names are crazy sounding, but its not my place to judge. Its in there parents image. I think the only reason the govt has a problem with justice is that whats needs to happen to their goverment.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteKeiosha Floyd said I feel that the names that the parents want to name their child should be okay because the parents might pick that name to show their child’s individuality or because the beauty of that certain name. I also feel that it is absurd that a child can’t be named Justice, King, Prince, or Queen just because it describes a higher power. Why should the parents have to pick a different name just because it’s a banned name in New Zealand? Many parents might be very religious but because they are not allowed to name their child with a religious name and I find it very unfair for them to put a ban on names. I also can’t believe that you can’t spell the name different or use punctuation to put a unique twist to it. Also why do a child name have to be under 100 characters? Parents put a lot of thought into their child’s name (not all of them but most of them) and a parents should be able to make their child’s name mean something or name their child based on something that is very special to them. About you not naming your child offensive names, I agree with that part because you shouldn’t name your child something disrespectful because that child will reflect on you and people will judge you and also people who make fun of that child because of their name that could cause a whole new problem. That's how I feel about this certain article.
ReplyDeleteShaela said : If two people were able to produce a baby they should be able to name their child anything that they please. I mean hopefully they wouldn't name their child "lucifer" just out of spite to the government. On the other hand certain names could have different meanings that could mean the total opposite to us or others.
ReplyDeleteThe only thing that should be stressed about naming a child would be which order certain names should go or what their name means to them or even what place it will put them in society. I can agree with the government saying that they shouldn't name a child after someone who has affected society negatively such as Hitler or Osama.
You wouldn't think of justice being a name people wouldn't agree with. In our eyes it means something positive but in there government not that much. BE SMART it does not mean people should go to the extent of naming a child after a fruit or sex,the child has to live eith that name forever. Now a days parents fer smart before yjjngs get oyf of hand and change it,something I can totally agree with at this point of our generation.
Dont agree with stupidity this day in age its taking over the world.
This article on baby names really had me laughing but not surprised at all because it seems that most people take naming a child as an opportunity to show a little bit of who they are, making it less about the child and all about them. When a child is born on this earth it's supposed to be a beautiful thing, and for parents to present "Iwanttobeamillionaire" as the name for their child to the registrar makes the moment get real ugly. The way that New Zealand is handling things is good because there should be some type of authority in place to say "we are not going to let you name your child idiot" or any other names that can generally be considered absurd. Although based on the articles there were some harmless names that they could have let alone. In naming a child I don't believe that the name determines the future of that child and what they will become but it definitely has the potential to do so. So in cases where parents are trying to make a point that they can make without subjecting their child to unnecessary torment or to simply get attention, and people with authority have the power to stop them I think they should do just that.
ReplyDeleteShymel Hardy
DeleteIn response to Whitney: I do agree with you in the fact that parents don't often consider their child's future when decidin gon baby names. Although I believe that the rules New Zealand slightly ridiculous; they're only in place for the betterment of the child. However, I do believe that the name a parent gives their child can affect their future when it comes time to apply for a job.
when i first read this article i thought to myself people should be able to name their children what they please. My mind was completely changed when i read a statement in the article saying "The issue of unusual names created headlines in 2008 when a New Zealand judge placed a nine-year-old girl in court guardianship so she could change her name from Talula Does the Hula From Hawaii". Yes, people should be able to name their children what they want, but you must think about how this will affect his/her future. When a child is given a name such as "Sex Fruit" not only will she/he face troubles in school with other children who are cruel but the number of opportunities in that child's future have decreased. That child may face trouble when it comes to getting a job and also being accepted by those around her. I agree with the way that New Zealand has been handling this situation because they have the child's best interest at heart.
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ReplyDeleteCall me crazy, but I kind of say why not? Of course it is morally wrong to name your child anything as stupid as Sex Fruit, but if a parent is dumb enought to do that then odds are there child would be raised just like the parents. No, not in every case is a child brought up like their parents but a lot of times they are. They could always change their name. Don't get me wrong here, IT IS NOT RIGHT TO NAME YOUR CHILD A DISRESPECFUL NAME, however who are they to judge and make a law saying that certain names are prohibited? Especially my name! Is the name Justice really that self-declaring? No. When naming a child you have to think about the future, I mean little Yeah Detroit will grow up one day and want to be taken seriously, maybe he/she will want to be a chef, a lawyer, a teacher, or maybe even a famous rap star. With a name like that, people will question him/her for the rest of his/her life... unless they change their name or something. But anywho, a law agaisnt it? If a parent is so moranic as to name their child Keenan Got Lucky then maybe we should get their brains examined instead of setting a law. Just a thought.
ReplyDeleteHaving a child is one of the most precious gifts you can bring to life and what you chose to name your child should be as special as the gift given. Names nowadays are very different and unique to some people but not everyone can agree on the perfect name for your child. Yes your child might get teased about their name but honestly who doesn’t. The name that the child is given from their parents automatically reflects on the parent’s character. If the parent is very religious they might name their child after someone in the bible or as a cultural tradition the son might be named after his father. I do agree on the fact that the name shouldn’t be that ridiculously long but as well as you are responsible for the child you must give them a name that you see fit. If the parents named their child Talula or Lucifer it should be accepted. The parents shouldn’t be forced to change their child’s name because of what society thinks. I find it very unfair that you are not given the freedom to pick a name that you find perfect because we live in a very judgmental world. If no one made a negative comment about the name Lucifer the law probably wouldn’t exist.
ReplyDeleteNew Zealand’s baby name parameters make a lot of sense, mainly because the name of a child could affect the child’s interactions in the future. A name such as “Tula does the hula in Hawaii” sounds almost like a comical stage name. If the child’s name is difficult for people to accept as a name or take seriously the child will then not be taken seriously. If the name is offensive then the child may experience limited social interactions, just on the grounds that no one will talk to them because their name is associated with their character. A name that links the child to a specific aspect of life such as “mafia no fear” would cause others to pin a mental tag on the child that reflects the lifestyle present in their name, even if they have no ties to it.
ReplyDelete-Darnell
Chelse Chambers Said:
ReplyDeleteWhenever someone is given a name, they now have the choice to live up to that name or not and it is the parents job to give them a name that best suits them. New Zealand making laws that hinders the parent’s creativity on naming their child can be viewed as a bad thing. It’s a bad thing to do because that parent has the right to name their child whatever they want to and there shouldn’t be a problem with that. However, New Zealand putting these laws into motion can be seen as a good thing too. Parents that name their children ridiculous names make it hard for the children to live up to those names. For example, “Sex Fruit”, now I understand that children are a product of sex but that is uncalled for. Now naming your child “Justice” or “Jesus” or even “J” should be ok because those names are common names but in New Zealand they are not allowed because the rule states that “Under New Zealand law babies’ names cannot be offensive, too long or contain religious references”. Overall, I truly believe that if you are going to name your child, whether the name is outrageous or not, please look what that name could mean or what it actually means.
It surprised me that a country actually made laws to regulate baby names. Did New Zealand have a bad history with weird names? Wether the family is a big influence or the father is present or not. the parents should respect their new baby's identities. In any country. Parents should be considerate of their child's future while naming it. A ridiculus name like "Sex Fruit" will tamper greatly with the childs self-esteem, his or her performance in school, and their posibilities as a happy, successful adult. Just like you're not allowed to pass kindergaten if you're not ready, adults should not be given total freedom to be unreasonable and disrespectful to the child. Religious refences are okay. Restricting how many letters is ok. But going wild to something like "Keenan Got Lucky" is out of hand and its good that there are laws protecting those babies.
ReplyDeleteOther than banning a name that is an obscenity in the national language of the country in question, I firmly oppose this sort of cultural cleansing. I personally think it is idiotic to give a kid certain weird names (like products, phrases, digits, most made-up names, words with meanings unsuitable for a name–I had a friend who wanted to name her baby Allusion–etc.); however, the government should not step in, even if the name given is Lucifer or Hitler. Of course, there may be value in child services or the equivalent taking a closer look at the families who choose such names (not sure I trust the mom who names her kid Cocaine), but name away. My cousins names are considered “weird” but they are real names with special religious meaning, and I wouldn’t trade them in for anything and would fight the US government to the death to keep them. Moreover, I would never even consider the But in a way it’s a shame that the US doesn’t care about their children enough to protect them from nut job parents who give their children ridiculous names, many of which I find offensive. So I am undecided on this issue. boring old names in the top 1000 list.
ReplyDeleteFrom Willis Brooks
ReplyDeleteNew Zealand is absolutely right; there are some names out there that should just be forbidden. “Sex Fruit”, “Keenan Got Lucy”, and “Yeah Detroit” these names are appalling all New Zealand is trying to do, is set a standard of upstanding individuals with dignified names. What would happen if one of these unlucky children had aspirations to become a politician? They’re going to fail, and that’s assuming this person doesn’t slit their wrist due to serious depression or just become a sort of hermit that hides from society. Ban the names! Ban them all! You can’t name your child a sentence it’s an outrage! Addressing the biblical referencing names, why would you name your child Messiah or Lucifer for what? dramatic irony? You parents are idiots! Who’s going to care about Messiah’s hobbies, personality, or Lucifer’s dreams? Hell whose going to care about them period when we’re too busy thinking about what in the world were this child’s parents under the influence of when they named their kid!? As for royalty names it’s not as outraging as “Sex Fruit”, but it’s still stupid, a person earns a title, your child is only as important as you make them, their name, be it normal or exotic is just a distraction from who they are as a person. My name is Willis Wynton Ajamu Linton Brooks, but it has nothing to do with what makes me, me.
Amanda Crespo said
ReplyDelete"In general terms, people can register whatever names they like for their children. However, some rules do apply," McPherson said.
A name is a person’s representation of them. A name is ones identity; a personal name identifies a specific unique and identifiable individual person. Naming a child is one of the greatest stages of life. Parents take the opportunity to express oneself creatively through this process. I believe everyone has the right to name their child whatever name they believe is unique and special, however sometimes the gift of naming is taken selfishly. Good parents want the best for their children’s life and future, but parents who name their children such names as “Sex Fruit” or “Tulula Does the Hula in Hawaii” are setting their child’s life for disaster. Children can face the future situations such as bullying and embarrassment. What good parent in their right mind would allow that? How would the parent explain their name to their child? I believe New Zealand is right for rejecting some names, to protect its people. A name can affect a person’s success in life, education or even possible happiness. I believe that the laws should protect our future generation!
Idalis Miranda:
ReplyDeleteIn the past ten years, many names have been refused by registrars under the New Zealand law. Parents should have the right to call their child what they feel is best for their child. One’s name is the most important when you first introduce yourself to a person or applications for jobs /school. I agree with some of the rules of New Zealand. Like one should not use swear words, certain symbols, or sentences for one’s child name. “In general terms, people can register whatever names they like for their children. However, some rules do apply," McPherson said. I also agree with the embarrassment of the child. In a world like ours today the New Zealand is just protecting the kids from being embarresed and teased. Now-a-days people are killing their selfs for being judge. People just have to make smater choices about their childern names. So I think the New Zealand is doing a good thing by refusing some of these “unique” names.
Brianna Corbitt
ReplyDeleteEvery one is born with a name, designed to differentiate one from another. In most cases, the parent’s decision regarding the name of their child could be the most difficult. If the wrong name is chosen, it could be detrimental for their offspring. One cannot simply change their name with a snap of the finger; it takes time and a lot of money. For this reason names should be well thought out because it will also affect that person later on in life. A person could even be denied a job opportunity based on the pronunciation or spelling of their name. It would be bias to dismiss a person’s job application because their parents foolishly named them: ‘Tanrica’, ‘Quoshiqua’, ‘Bonita’ or anything of that sort. No one is granted with the power to pick their parent’s and there is no reset or return to sender button. The downfall of a lot of parents today however, is the media portraying an exaggerated means of living. Some rappers, singers and other celebrities mention nothing other than the cars they own, the money they have, and the mansions they live in. It’s no wonder why common people who can’t afford these expensive luxuries desire all of the finer things in life. For this reason, materialistic parents name their children: Lexus, Mercedes, Versace, Cash Monee and other brand names with hopes to feel more financially secure. Even if the parents have never stepped foot inside of a Lexus or Mercedes they would see no issue with naming their children after these foreign vehicles. A name of a baby should hold value to their parents; if it does the parents will have the same joy when hearing the name as they did when the child was born. The job of every good parent is to want to see their child succeed. Surprisingly a name can affect several factors, including getting accepted into colleges or even being hired at a particular job. Instead of focusing on being different and choosing a name that no one has ever heard of, one should meditate on the future of their child.
It surprised me that The New Zealand government went as far as to enact laws that restrict certain names. As many other have stated it is common sense to ban names that contain sexual references, are too long or short, or are generally embarrassing for the baby and its family. Does New Zealand have more of a baby name problem than other countries? As far as I know no other country has actual legislature that prohibits certain names.
ReplyDeleteI am completely divided about the matter, on one hand, I think creativity should be embraced. I think it would be much more interesting meeting a person named "Tulula Does the Hula From Hawaii" rather than another "John" or "Michael" (no offense Johns and Michaels I'm sure you're great guys). To me it just seems silly to ban names such as Justice which are perfectly acceptable in the rest of the world. On the other hand, children shouldn't have names like "Anal" which have the potential to destroy their lives. I think that everything should be in moderation. New Zealand should treat names like the rest of the world does and only band the ones that are obvious jokes instead of creating unnecessary legislature.
I was stunned to find out that New Zealand had laws to restrict individuals from naming their babies. It’s hard to pick a side to stand on. I agree with the state of New Zealand for making the law because I feel some names parents give their babies’ are inappropriate. On the other hand, who is the government to tell people how they wish to express their selves, whether it be through their names or not. If a parent gives their child a name like “Sex Fruit”, I feel government can interfere because it isn’t a presentable name for anyone to have. But them restricting the name “King”, “Queen”, or “Prince” is absurd. The names are not inappropriate, they are simply refused by New Zealand because the title the names have and their meanings. If someone wants to name their child something to correspond with their beliefs or religion, why should the state stop them from that?
ReplyDeletebrennan Reavesit suerpirsed me that New Zealand would as fear as to make a law agasnt the names such a justice becuse they bealive it dosnt give you a fear start in life i didnt understand why they thought it wold be offencies these also a limint to what you can name your9:01 AM
ReplyDeletebrennan Reaves [reaves.brennan@gmail.com]Actions
To:MParker, Dorothy M
Wednesday, January 11, 2012 9:01 AM
From Brennan Reaves
It surprised me that New Zealand would as fear as to make a law agasnt the names such a justice because they bealive it dosnt give you a fear start in life I didnt understand why they thought it wold be offencies these also a limint to what you can name your baby with justification.
Besides the fact that I find the idea of naming a child Sex Fruit hilarious, this is in actuality a serious matter. Simply because you could name you child anything does not mean that you should. I think this problem originates in videogames, honestly. A generation of people that grew up naming the characters in a game whatever they wanted is finally having kids. These are people that named their Pokémon character “Poop” and thought it was the cleverest thing ever accomplished by any being of the human race, but even the most immature mind would admit that after about 2 minutes the novelty wears thin, and a child is a lot more permanent and has a lot more emotional capacity than a Pokémon game. Sadly I think that’s the reason they name them ridiculous things, because the novelty of parody videogames has run dry and the name game has to evolve or die, so they force it on their children for their own enjoyment. And its not that videogames are to blame. Its people who can’t distinguish the video game world from reality who are naming their kids Sex Fruit and Metallica, so yes, the government should intervene for the sake of that child.
ReplyDelete-Zachariah Bellucci
Shymel said: Most names have meaning behind them or some sort of value so, parents name their children accordingly. In Reading that parents under New Zealand law babies’ names cannot be offensive, too long or contain religious references; I was extremely shocked and disturbed. Although this law is to protect a child from being teased or from just having a “dumb” name, it can affect affect how the parent goes about naming their child. However, when that child goes to school or even applies for a job later in life, their name will be the first thing people remember. The matter of ones charm isn’t firmly dictated by the name they were given, but then again it provides an imprint of the existence they have come from. Naming a child “Lucifer” or “Talulac Does the Hula From Hawaii” is up the parent but, it’s the child that will bear the struggles or criticism.
ReplyDeleteI’d like to begin by saying that I do support the classic American principle of one’s right to life, love, and pursuit of happiness. However, if what makes you happy is naming your child Anal, New Zealand and I have a bit of a problem with that. I believe that naming regulations are reasonable, since it is genuinely ridiculous for someone’s government name to be “Talula Does The Hula From Hawaii” and be taken seriously. I do not agree with the extent to which the censorship goes in New Zealand, having rejected names like Justice and Prince. Names that double as political or religious titles are not vulgar and should not be rejected. I don’t even disagree with someone naming their child Lucifer – at least it’s a name! Anal is not a name, and neither is Sex Fruit, because we know what they mean. Now if someone were to try to name their son The Devil Johnson or something along those lines, yes it’s good for a laugh, but it is unacceptable. I don’t know who would be offended if someone were named King, but I know that Jesus is an offensive name to give to someone who isn’t the son of god. I once liked a page on facebook entitled “I will name my son Batman if 10,000 people like this page,” because I was 14 years old. The father of that baby boy most likely did not name his son Batman, even if over 15,000 people liked the page, because Batman’s not a name, it’s a comic book character.
ReplyDeleteThe naming of a child is one of the most difficult and important decisions that a parent has to make. Some parents choose to name their children names that are usually easy to pronounce, some choose to give their kids names that have a meaning, and some parents choose to give their child a name that is unique. In the United States, the government has no influence over a parent naming their child. For Example, you could name your child "Fuck You", and although people would be very judgemental, government officials could not tell you not to name your child that because it could be considered offensive. In New Zealand, law officials have the authority to deny a childs name if they feel that the name is offensive, or ridiculous. For example, people can't name their child Lucifer, because it could be considered offensive to people's religous beliefs. I feel that people should have the freedom of naming their kids to a certain extent. I don't think that people should be able to name their children anything sexual, or offensive to people's religous beliefs. Although its not the child's decision, they will still be judged by their name if their parent made a poor decision in their naming process.- Philip Bynoe
ReplyDeleteI was actually a bit amused by the laws made in New Zealand. I think as Americans we forget that we have so many basic rights, even if that basic right is to name your child whatever you would like, no matter how ridiculous. In my opinion, which I know will spark controversy, I think in some cases government or even the nurses at the hospital in America should be able to step in and say to a parent, that(name) is not ok, you cant name your kid that. I mean yes, if the name is ridiculous but has a meaning, thats fine, but if the name is Histare'e Ice'is Cashmere Scott(its my baby cousins name and yes, its ridiculous) then the nurse should be able to to say, NO, i refuse to let this child grow up with that name. I feel like New Zealand is ensuring children that are born have names that will be widely excepted in a business or job setting. Most people may not be comfortable going to a doctor name Bon Qui Qui. So with that being said, I somewhat agree with New Zealand, they may have a good idea going down there.
ReplyDeleteShymel Hardy
DeleteIn response to Aireanna:
I totally agree with you! Although your point will cause controversy, your point is true. I don't know if Americans are abusing their rights when naming a child or if they're just plain stupid. Names that are ridiculous but have meaning are fine but, there should be a limit. Naming your child Shakinahqua Gulakoo will only end up being a conversation piece or not taken serious at all. New Zealand's law is fine with me.
Jeneé Skinner:
ReplyDeleteIn response to Mary R:
Some people don’t have moral restraint or the foresight to think of some of the responsibilities leading to the best interest of their kid(s). Naming a child leaves a personal and social impression that would be considered selfish not to consider. A parent who isn’t in their right mind or just unprepared to be a parent deserves to have guidance in the ways to be mindful of the influence they have on their children’s lives. Children will have to endure the mistakes, immature thoughts, actions, and judgments of a guardian down to the imprint of their name leaves for themselves as well others.
I completely disagree with Elexus I feel when she made up her mind the first time about the article it was correct. Yes it might effect the way the kid grows up but then again it wouldn’t hurt their opportunities in the future because they could simply change their name in the future once they turn 16. I feel like the parents are entitled to name they’re child whatever the name may be simply because that’s there child. New Zealand isn’t handling this situation the right way if you ask me.
ReplyDeleteResponse to Jenee
ReplyDeleteJaQuana says:
I believe it is a parents right to choose the child’s name. I agree that it is a big part of first impression, but a name doesn't tell you someone's character or capabilities. Therefore people who don't give jobs to those who doesn't have a proper name are discriminating, and can b passing up on the best worker for the job. A lot of times parents give their children names that means something to them, if they choose to name their kid Justice or Bonequisha it is strictly their decision. People get judged on numerous things includind names, appearances, backgrounds, etc. So I believe that a parent shouldn't have to name their kid a common name just to appease other people. Personally I know that my name is ghetto and I wouldn't change it for the world. It was something given to me with much thought by my mother and I am proud to be me, therefore I am proud to be JaQuana Tysha Watkins.
Lynnea Says: I believe that its every parent should have their own opportunity to name their child whatever they feel is necessary. It’s their child that they brought into the world so I feel no else’s opinion, law or religion should have anything to do with it. I think any parent with common sense or in their right mind wouldn’t name their child sex, anal, or Lucifer if they do then that just goes to show what kind of parent s they are and what their setting their children up for in the future. I believe New Zeland is going about this the wrong way it's untimatley up to the parents.
ReplyDeleteLatriece response to Whitney:
ReplyDeleteYes everyone has their own right to name their child anything they wish to, but do you really think that is equally fair to the child who has to live with the name. Every freedom comes with a restriction so its not just being suppressive of New Zealand’s government to have requirements to naming your child. Think if you could have had a say in what you were going to be named. Would you have kept the same name? Thinking of only the humane part in this situation just takes away from the point that New Zealand tried to focus on. Helping the child was their only intent.
Yes everyone has their own right to name their child anything they wish to, but do you really think that is equally fair to the child who has to live with the name. Every freedom comes with a restriction so its not just being suppressive of New Zealand’s government to have requirements to naming your child. Think if you could have had a say in what you were going to be named. Would you have kept the same name? Thinking of only the humane part in this situation just takes away from the point that New Zealand tried to focus on. Helping the child was their only intent.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI believe that a parent should name ther child a name of meaning, a name that the child could grow into. Like a name usually ends up fitting the once baby but now grown up. Some people look like theyre name should be Sandy but there name is Katelyn.. But there's a difference when a parent gives there child a sentence as a name, a name usually has a meaning behind it. I feel people should only be able to name there child something of meaning. New Zealand just too it to far by not allowing people to name there kids from derival of religion and stuff cause that has meaning. My name is Chabelli and to some people it sounds absolutley rediculious and to some people it sounds absolutley beautiful. But
ReplyDeleteResponse to Aireanna
ReplyDeleteI believe that a nurse should be able to stop a person and say that name is not ok. A child's name is supposed to represent there personality. If my child's name was Sex Fruit , how would that seriously look on her name tag was Wegmans. Parents really need to think about how there childs name will be precieved when they get older. Also as a child this is just another source of bullying. I think the parent would get offened if someone came to them and told them that what there were about to name there child is inappropriate,But it's the thought that counts you are saving that child's life. I can't believe people would'nt try to put some love inti there childs name. Unbelievable.
in Response to mary Rotan: i agree with your completly on this. people should have the right to name their child whatever they want and no one should stop them. people have different reason as to why they want to name their child something. it doesnt matter what society thinks. at the very momnet of you naming your child. some names have meanings behind them and are special to some people and they are nt gettign the opportunity to give their child the name they want
ReplyDeleteIn response to Tatiana: While we wish that people will define their own names, It is simply not the case for society at large. Names such as Sex Fruit or Mafia No Fear will unfortunately be looked down upon by those in authority as derogatory and self-describing. Imagine this situation for instance: a girl named Sex Fruit is looking to be a doctor, she goes to medical school and does all the requirements she has to, yet when she gets the job interview her image is automatically lowered by the interviewer. In his or her mind, Sex Fruit must come from a very profane, and unintelligent family, she has the name of a prostitute. She will have great difficulty getting the job because the name Sex Fruit creates the image of a sleezy, disrespectful girl. Now who would want her as a doctor? Obviously not the medical world. Names carry plenty of weight with them, they will tarnish a persons image and invite plenty of harrassment and tormenters and reduce opportunities and because of this there needs to be banning of inappropriate names.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Karis: If a parent has enough ignorance to name their child something like Yeah Detroit they will severely limit the opportunities that their child will have such as jobs and friendships. The name will invite teasing, harrassment, and generally a life of misery. Why would anyone choose to not act on obscene names that cause their child all this suffering? If ignorance is the problem we need to stop it wherever it is. New Zeland's law needs to be passed promptly. Simply calling something ignorant does nothing to solve the problem.
ReplyDeleteMaddy says:
ReplyDeleteIn response to Marissa: I one hundred percent agree with Marissa. Naming your child is a delicate process. You cannot just come up with a random name without putting any thought into it. Marissa says, “the child is going to have to live with this name for their whole life, or at least until it is the legal age for a child to change their name.” This statement is completely true because a child’s name is what makes a person who they are and if they have an embarrassing name their life will be full of teasing and grief. Parents should definitely “think twice before they give their child their name.”
In response to Maggie: Naming a baby is an important step in having a child. Parents have many different reasons why they name their child the way they do. It could have a certain meaning behind it. Maggie says, “In New Zealand, there are precautions to keep the names reasonable.” That is a smart move on their part because some names can be too long or offensive. This restricts the freedom of parents but they should have the common sense to name their baby a reasonable name. A law like this is to help prevent embarrassment and help parents choose the right name for their child.
Jenee Skinner
ReplyDeleteIn Response to Willis Brooks:
Though this response is a little on the fanatical side, it’s agreeable that a name isn’t the same as a phrase. Children will have to grow up with these names and deal with all kinds of reactions from a prejudice world. Names with biblical and/or historical reference can be admired; however it’s safe to say that certain titles or names are exalted for individuals who have earned it such as Jehovah or General. Other names can be slanderous and offensive to someone who’s in a position of power to give or take away certain opportunities that can help kids move forward academically, professionally, personally, etc. It’s also one of the first impressions of what the child’s upbringing may be like. It’s selfish on the adult’s end not to consider the kind of influence that a child’s first piece of identity will have to build on their own character and that will be introduced to others.
In responce to Jamie's post.
ReplyDeleteI agree that a child should be named whatever they want by their parent just do not go to the extent of "overdoing" it. God example remembering that the child will have to live with it forever, yes they may want to change it and are able to bug it will forever stick with them. And we both agreed that naming your child one thing that could sound good to you but offend someone else. In the end people opinions do not matter about YOUR family.
In response to Helene : I can also agree with that new zealand had every right to enforce those name rules. Also parents do not realize what they are doing for their child's future, this day in age people are very judgdmental and stubborn. In another way it does reflect the parent more than the child themselves.
In a way I'm in the middle of these two statements due to the fact ive never had to be in a situation like that so I cant trully put my true opinion in it .
In rejoinder to Zachariah Bellucci:
ReplyDeleteI found Zach’s post intriguing, though to be fair I can’t say that I agree with everything he said. Do I believe the origin of the baby name controversy started with video game characters? Well, no, but I am not denying the fact that there might be something in the ritual of video game names that has helped contribute to the “issue.”
Before I begin, I would also like to add that I admire Zach’s quest for original thought in his blog post. At the risk of “bogglement,” Zach remained true to character and by doing so raised an interesting point.
Does one’s own childhood experience affect the naming process of their predecessors? Has it been instilled by past generations to name children simply on the basis of their own personal parental experience? The issue Zach brings up is a good example of just how far a parent’s personal nostalgia and selfish satisfaction will take them, in order to recover a part of themselves they’ve lost. “…(T)he novelty of parody videogames has run dry and the name game has to evolve or die, so they force it on their children for their own enjoyment… And its not that videogames are to blame. Its people who can’t distinguish the video game world from reality.” Are we trying to turn reality into a fictionalized story, using our children as pawns to displace our own creative longing? I wonder if naming your children after such things as Sex Fruit and Colonel brings parents closure and stimulates control. After all, for 18 years their children remain solely their own.
With every point Zach made, I was left with more questions waiting in line to be asked. Good job, Zach! I had to think on this one! ;)
In response to LeeAna Hess:
I liked the point LeeAna brought up in her post. In all of this we seem so concerned with the parent’s rights that we forget to remember the child’s. Giving potentially embarrassing names to children is increasing the child’s odds for harassment, shame, and low self-esteem.
I like how LeeAna put it, “names are the first thing people learn about you.” While you can’t read a book by it’s cover, first impressions do matter in many aspects of one’s life (like job interviews for example). Embarrassing names carry into one’s adult hood, therefore parent’s should be more careful and chose their children’s name more seriously.
Response to Keiosha Floyd: you make a good point about the parent’s freedom to express individuality but I have a question, how can the parents know what their child's personality will turn out to be? Wouldn’t a limiting name, such as one that stems from religion, affect the child’s individuality? If that child ever chose a different path their name would contradict their personal values.
ReplyDeleteAlso I believe that rule on spelling the banned names differently was a means of blocking possible loopholes.
P.S. personally I think a name should be under 100 characters , can you imagine a name this long: aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
That would be incredibly cumbersome to pronounce for any sort of professional person/ event. Conversely I suppose it would make an interesting conversation piece, a name that long would have to mean something right?
-Darnell
For once I can honestly say that I agree with Emil. He explains that you are given the option to name your own child whatever you wish. New Zealand shouldn’t be able to criticize or change your child’s name because it doesn’t fit their “Perfect Name “category. When the name was created there most likely was some logic behind it withered it was a name passed down or a mix between the father and the mother’s name. That child is there’s and whatever wacky, crazy, unique name the parents pick should be accepted. As Email said “who am I to judge” which is what we all do unfortunately which is why this law was created.
ReplyDeleteResponse to Chelse Chambers: I can agree with what Chelse says about the freedom of naming your own child. I think that even if you do name your child a very odd name you should still do it. Names come from certain places rather if it’s a family member or a person in the bible. The child will still have to live up to the name in a negative or positive way. Everyone’s is judged on their name and it’s normal because that’s the society we live in.
ReplyDeleteI disagree with the fact that “sex fruit” isn’t acceptable. Yes, it is absolutely absurd and ridiculously but you can’t deny one name and keep the others. The law should be that you can name your child what you want because it’s your child and once they reach a certain age they should be able to change it if they want to.
Olivia Monin
ReplyDeleteResponse to Helene: I said the same exact thing when I first read those names. Don't the parents know it's a serious thing to have and name a child? And you'll always get those ignorant parents who say "This is my child, I brought them into the world, and I can name them whatever I want" but honestly that's not true. I get that parents want their kids to be unique I really do, but there's a clear difference between 'interesting' and 'obnoxious'. A person's name impacts everything they do, sometimes negatively. Mafia Has No Fear? Like what excuse do those parents have? There definitely needs to be restrictions.
Response to Justice: I totally agree with you about your name. I think it's stupid that you can't name your child Justice or Queen or something along those lines. But I disagree with you on the fact that there shouldn't be laws about it. I feel like those laws are not as much of restrictions to parents, but protection to those children. It's those kids who have to live with the name and they have to go through all of elementary, middle, and high school until they can change it when they're 18. I believe that if parents get rejected for naming their child something, then they should have to name them something else and maybe just call them the other name. And later on if the kid wants to change their name to something ridiculous, they can.
I think that people today put a lot of labels on things. Whether it's religion, politics or any type of judgment, there is often a notion that is not thoroughly thought through. For instance, when a person living in the US hears the word “Muslim” their initial reaction is the stereotype portrayed by the news media, even if this persons personal opinion of the general Muslim population differ from the medias. I think this is why some parents give so much thought to the names they give their child. Whether a name has a history (as in it's origin in the Bible, or a historical figure) or not, each name has a certain sound and feeling attached to it. When a person first hears this name, they get a certain feeling about who this person is, their lifestyle, personality etc. These feelings that people get when they hear the name is either based off of the sounds the name is made up of, or a context in which they were/are familiar with. For instance, if a person is named “Adolf”, it would be hard for people to NOT think of Adolf Hitler. I think in this context, it is apparent how much substance can be be in a name. That being said, if people are attempting to name their children “bssssbbbbbbbbbweoi385sdlfkja(*@#$sahp;towienfalkjsd” (pronounced “Bob”), “Sex fruit” etc. the government may have to intervene or, at least, slap these people upside the head.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Mathew's way of putting it. It's mostly the sound that makes a person think something about a name they hear. If the name has a certain origin or feeeling associated with it, it will evoke a type of response to it by the person who hears it. Tha's what causes that problems that the government in New Zealand tries to keep in check.
DeleteResponse to Nyesha McKinney: I have to disagree with you. The name Lucifer or Satan also comes from the bible. The more common names such as Mary or James are not really what the New Zealand baby name rules are trying to address. I’m sure there are plenty of non-Christians that have the name Mary. What I believe the rule applies to are some of the bigger names such as Jesus or Moses or Solomon. I mean no disrespect but you seem to be following a double standard where positive Christian names should be allowed but not the negative ones. By taking away the possibility of a religious name, New Zealand avoided a name that would offend someone of any religion.
ReplyDeleteOn another note, I do agree that when naming a child the parents should be thinking more about the child’s future and less about themselves.
-Darnell
Response to Darnell: I have to disagree with you. The If the New Zeland law is going to set a rule it has to be a whole thing not a half. What I mean by that is if they are going to band such names that are more powerful or what they claim as more popular in the bible, shouldn't they band all the bible names because most of them are popluar. I feel that the negative names such as satan or lucifer are the ones that should be banned. The child will be most likley be tormented and judged with a name like that. Nothing is wrong with the more Powerful names such as Jesus or Omega (i.e) its the negative ones that should not be allowed. I believe that no one has the right to be judged no matter what but in todays society, that wil never be possible no matter how much we want it to change.
DeleteResponse to kamille: I have to disagree. I feel that if a childs name reflects an obsenity and is just disrespectful than it should be changed. the child has no voice and cannot speak for itself. i agree with you that a child's name is one of the most important things a parent should do and is a gift. and that due to society some things wont be accept and names will be judged. Once again that will not be able to change no matter how much we want, but the parents should always think about whats best for their child and that they could be teased and tormented on the depth of their name. so if it is ridicoulus, i think to a certain extent that it should be changed.
ReplyDelete