It’s strange that the state of Pennsylvania recently banned four baby names that were once thought to be fine. Parents, legal experts, and people in general are very upset about this ruling. Before we get into the details of these names that aren’t allowed, it’s important to know why this controversial move was made and how it might affect parents in Pennsylvania’s right to choose a name for their child.
“King” and “Queen”: Titles or Bad Names?
Many people don’t agree with the first two names that were banned: KING and QUEEN. Some people say these names are just titles and shouldn’t be seen as offensive, but the state of Pennsylvania doesn’t agree.
Officials in the government think that these names could make the kids look cocky or privileged, which could lead to bullying and social problems. But people who like these names say that they show respect for the child’s worth and promise.
Is talking about Jesus Christ as blasphemous or honoring a religious figure?
The most divisive of the four was the one that banned the name JESUS CHRIST. Some people say this name is offensive to Christians and acts against their faith, while others say it’s a way to honor a religious person. In a strong statement, Pennsylvania has said that the name might be insulting and wrong in a society with lots of different kinds of people. But a lot of parents think this choice takes away their right to pick a name that fits with their religious beliefs.
III and IV: Ordinal Numbers or Names That Are Hard to Understand?
The last two names that have been banned, III and IV, were deemed unacceptable because they could lead to misunderstanding. The state of Pennsylvania thinks that using odd numbers in a name could cause problems with paperwork and could even cause problems for the child in the future. To give an example, if a child named John III has a son, the naming practice might be hard to follow and understand. Some parents, though, say that these names are a way to honor family history and customs.
A constitutional debate on whether it is legal to ban names
The choice to ban these four names has made people wonder if it is possible to do something like this. A lot of lawyers say that banning names violates parents’ constitutional rights, especially their right to privacy and freedom of speech. They think the government shouldn’t be able to tell parents what names they can and cannot give their kids. But Pennsylvania says it has the right to control names to keep kids safe and keep the government running smoothly.
What the Future Holds for Baby Naming in Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania baby names that were banned have caused people all over the country to talk about how far parenting rights go and what the government’s role is in controlling names. As the conversation goes on, it’s clear that both sides have good points. Others agree that the state went too far, but others back the decision to keep the administrative system running smoothly and protect children from harm.
In the end, it’s still not clear what will happen with baby names in Pennsylvania. As parents continue to say that these bans are not valid, the state might have to change its mind. No matter what, though, the choice to ban these four names has made it clear that name laws in the US need to be more nuanced and well-thought-out.
