Growing up in a Western country it may have been a common experience to hear the teacher mispronounce your name. Particularly if it’s a name that’s not so common or a name from a different culture. My Chinese surname was commonly mispronounced but it was not common for people to ask how to pronounce my name. When someone asks “How do I pronounce your name?” it shows a sign of curiosity and respect. They are genuinely interested and conscious of pronouncing your name correctly.
Name discrimination is prevalent in our society. These areas include job applications and applying for a rental property. This shouldn’t be the case but it is sadly the reality. There may be stereotypes and racial prejudices that arise with certain names particularly names that may seem difficult to pronounce. However, a person’s capability in a job or how well they will take care of a property is not determined by their name.
Our names can have special meanings behind them and they can be reflective of our culture, identity and language. Taking the time to learn how to pronounce someone’s name creates connection and openness. It shows respect for different cultures and it acknowledges the person. If you ever interact with someone and you’re unsure how to pronounce their name, don’t be shy to ask them “How do I pronounce your name?”
Photography by Leslie Zhang
Tien-Jen 