Danillo and Catarina Prímola were warned that the name they chose for their baby boy might make him embarrassed later on.
Parents Can't Use The Name They Picked For Their Baby Because Of Worries About Bullying
The comprehensive guide to baby names could definitely use an update these days, particularly because another couple has found themselves barred from naming their child as they had originally planned.
It's understandable that parents want to pick a name that's both unique and memorable for their child. However, even though a name might seem adorable for a tiny infant, it’s crucial to consider how it will grow with them over the years.
Choosing a name can be tricky. You might irk some with an unusual spelling, shock others if the name sounds 'absolutely wretched,' or stumble upon a moniker with an unintended offensive meaning.
It's a challenge to find a name that pleases everyone.
Yet, the bottom line in this naming game is complying with the legal standards set by the authorities in your country.
However, if those officials find the name unsuitable for any reason, they have the authority to veto your choice.
Take it from Danillo and Catarina Prímola, who recently faced a naming roadblock in Brazil when authorities challenged the name they selected for their son.
In a surprising twist, the reason for the objection was concern that the name might 'cause future embarrassment to the child'.
The couple had chosen the name Piyé as a tribute to the first Black Egyptian pharaoh, who not only built the oldest known pyramid at El-Kurru but also expanded the Temple of Amun.
In Brazilian, the name translates to Piié, but officials were not in favor of it. Their concern was that it sounded too close to 'plié,' a term commonly used in ballet.
This perceived similarity led the Court of Justice and the Belo Horizonte registry office in Minas Gerais to rule against the use of the name Piyé for the baby boy.
Danillo and Catarina were clearly told they were not allowed to 'register a first name that could expose their bearers to ridicule,' as reported by the Daily Mail.
The court elaborated on their decision, stating, "That is why the sound and spelling of the name were preponderant for the rejection. They would be capable of causing future embarrassment to the child."
Dad Danillo shared that the inspiration for the name came long before their son was born on August 31. They were inspired by a theme song from the 2023 carnival celebrations.
"There was a word there that talked about the Black pharaoh," he noted.
"We went to research what it was like and we found the story of Piiê, who was a Nubian warrior who fought and conquered Egypt and became the first Black pharaoh."
"Recovering African names is a powerful way to give a new narrative to the history of black people," Danillo added emphatically.
"We have the right to educate our children with this strength, this culture, and in a way that they have representation in their name."
Although initially, the court in Minas Gerais agreed with the decision of Belo Horizonte's registry office, a judge overturned this decision on Friday, September 13.
Fortunately, now young Piyé will be able to receive his vaccinations, as he has officially been granted a birth certificate.