Tradition, confusion, and appropriation: Changing your name in an intercultural marriage
There’s a lot to consider when contemplating a name change, of course: personal branding, publications if you’re an writer, your spouse’s feelings on the matter, your own thoughts. But there are extra things to mull over if your marriage is an intercultural one. With that in mind, here’s what I thought about when making my decision…
Are the gifts I’m getting for my attendants cultural appropriation?
I’m thinking about buying my bridal party luchador masks. But here’s the deal: I am not Mexican. I am a fan of the wrestling style, but not a huge one. I just think they’re delightful.
Does this seem like co-opting another culture? I mean, it isn’t like Dio De Los Muertos, where it’s steeped in religion, but… what do you think?
Why do couples borrow cultural elements for their wedding, and how can you do so respectfully?
Many Anglo-Americans have such a mishmash of culture that they have few or no traditions that hold significant meaning for them. Perhaps people are inclined to like culture, symbolism, rituals, and traditions. Maybe they seek these out in other cultures because they don’t have any of their own. Perhaps people seek to set themselves apart from a family or culture that they don’t wish to be a part of or celebrate.