Names, Space-Making and Movement: A Call for Stories

A call for names. Or, rather, a call for the stories behind chosen names. 

I am principally interested in the ways that new names arise out of travel experiences or are taken on out of a desire for free movement. What does it say about us as a society that many of us are willing to change our names from the ones given to us by our families? How does that relate to places and the way we interact with them? Does it, in fact, relate at all?

I see many reasons for someone to change their own name. A break from a tumultuous family. A change in sexual expression or gender. A spiritual experience. Are these, too, related to a desire for movement? Does this name change serve as a tool in achieving freedom to move? 

Sometimes names are changed only once. Sometimes a person will change their name as easily as they change their outfit. Some names are chosen for while "on the road" or in a temporary space, such as a festival (ie Burning Man, Radical Faery gatherings or Rainbow Gatherings would be just a few popular examples)

Does changing your name give you greater freedom and space to move (whether physically, mentally or emotionally)?

Does this phenomena say something about the ways in which we wish to make or unmake our family dynamics or our bonds to place? 

Did the experience that led to this change relate to a desire or need for movement? 

For you, is it about reforming new family bonds or casting family ties out of your life?

Write to me. I want to know. 

Note: Any stories shared may be used for a published article. Please make it clear if there are any details you would prefer not to share with the public.