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HelpRe: Thoughts on foreign FN with local LN?
in reply to a message by hebeCotogna
In the US, at least, what even counts as a "local" name? We have such a huge diversity of ethnicities and backgrounds, and a big proportion of that diverse population has been here for generations.
Before you criticize a man, walk a mile in his shoes. That way, when you criticize him, you're a mile away and you have his shoes!
Steve Martin
Before you criticize a man, walk a mile in his shoes. That way, when you criticize him, you're a mile away and you have his shoes!
Steve Martin
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That’s definitely true! Names like Esteban or Greta I think would be considered pretty ‘normal’ despite being foreign, but most Americans would be unfamiliar with names like Qingfei or Mawuli and would at least not be considered ‘local’ (if nothing else more ‘othering’). Though you’re right about ‘local’ and ‘foreign’ not being perfect categories here, since it really has to do with familiarity. For example, native american names aren’t treated the same as ‘local’ names like Zack or Lily despite being more ‘local’ than they are.
It’s complicated I suppose haha
It’s complicated I suppose haha