I wanted to share my opinion on the use of names in other languages— Specifically ones from East Asia. Because that’s what I’m seeing the most backlash of.. And this isn’t in relation to a specific situation either, I just wanted to share my stance on this whole thing.

Since I am half Japanese (by blood), I lived there when I was younger (not born), Most of my opinions will be about those names because that’s what I’m most knowledgeable on.

I don’t think it’s a big deal that non-japanese or non-asian people use Japanese or asian names. I’ve done my research so I’m not just talking to talk. Japan and it’s culture isn’t closed. I think it is fine to use Japanese names As long as you’re being respectful and not being.. I don’t know, what society deems as “weird”? Like as long as you’re not trying to switch your race or something, then it’s fine. This also goes for wearing Traditional clothing as well— If you’re wearing it respectfully, taking time to learn about the culture, the language, then it’s no problem. Most people that move to Japan adopt a “second name”, a Japanese name, to use with their friends mostly or with colleagues as a nickname. It’s all fine. I won’t speak for other asian cultures as I’m not apart of them but as far as I know? It’s fine for Japanese names as long as it’s coming from a place of appreciation, or even just liking the name.

Especially because names have a meaning, all / most of them do. If you think a name fits you and your personality, go for it. If you’re only using the name because you want to “become japanese”, maybe step back and do some inner work. I’m just tired of seeing people be ostracized for harmless things. Especially when most people in Japan really don’t give a shit. You may find the occasional one that does, and that’s how they feel, you can’t change how someone else feels of course, But as someone who is part of the culture and lived there— go ahead. As long as you’re respectful.

And let’s not forget that some names share language origins as well— and that some names can come from 2 different cultures. I won’t speak for other cultures (Native, Indigenous, etc.) Because I already know that those are closed cultures and that names have to be gifted for you to use them, I am not talking about those. I’m talking specifically east-asian and Japanese names. ^ ^ Don’t use Native / Indigenous names if they weren’t gifted, it’s common knowledge.