What Does Your Last Name Mean to You?

African Americans were stripped not only from their identities but also from their last names, given the one of their oppressor’s

Danielle Hamner, MSW
Nov 1 · 4 min read
Photo by Eddy Lackmann on Unsplash

If we go back in history African Americans were stripped not only from their identities but also from their last names. Many were given the names of their oppressor’s and this name would then be passed down for generations.

Whether it be for cultural or religious purposes there are those that have chosen to forgo these names and embraced new ones, examples of this include both Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali. The visual presence of last names is a very prevalent factor in our everyday culture with sports serving as one of them. Players last names are often displayed on the back of their jersey’s which is a practice that dates to the 1960’s with the Chicago White Sox. In today society, coaches will often yell their players last names to push them to practice harder or to focus more both on and off the field.


My Family History

In my quest to understand and learn more about my family history I was told stories that detailed fortitude and valor from my Grandfather. I recall him reminiscing about growing up in Alabama and how both him and his Mother had interactions with the Ku Klux Klan he shared how these encounters instilled not only fear but resilience in him. It is something that I never fathom.

In addition, he would describe how living in poverty with his Mother had also affected his overall worldview. My Grandfather stated that he always envisioned a better life for himself and in his adult years he created just that. He became a dedicated and loyal employee at a company where he quickly moved up the ranks to a supervisory position with a company he would stay at for decades.

Even in his retirement he always kept himself busy. Finding ways to give back to others; whether it be taking a homebound neighbor shopping or just keeping a lonely man company who missed his wife. He was a distinguished man whose faith never waived. He always says to me “You are a Hamner be proud of who you are.”

twenty20.com/amyjhumphries

My Father is also another great example of this. When he was in high school, he excelled at both football and track. He was disciplined and determined although his life was not always perfect. He too had to overcome adversity. My Father’s athletic abilities paid off and he broke a school record. Years later, he was inducted into his High School’s Hall of Fame for his track accomplishments. He never missed a day of work and his priority was to always provide for his family. When I now see people that have known my Father, they will reminisce about his accolades. I beam with pride as I know that I am part of his legacy.

Photo by Tirza van Dijk on Unsplash

You have no idea

A couple of months ago I was at work and one of my clients was irate, disruptive and very out of control. When I arrived to assess the situation, I questioned one of the staff as to what going on and she said Oh! he is acting like just like a Hamner and you know you all get what you want. I looked at her mystified. This woman that I only see 8 to 10 hours a day dares to make comments about my family lineage how bold! Girl, you don’t know me like that! I immediately told her to not refer to him as such and she just remarked back with Oh! I am just playing.

We all know that behind every joke comes people’s honest opinions, what audacity she has! However, there was no need for further dialogue as I am learning in life that the smallest exchange of correcting someone can be just as effective, and I did just that and walked away.

In evaluation my family history I developed a sense of gratitude as I now understand that it was built around sacrifice determination and grit. Whether my last name was given to me from a history that derives from slavery I was always been reminded that it stood for something greater that myself. When I say my last name now I speak it with pride as I know my ancestors are listening.

Photo by Wonderlane on Unsplash

An Injustice!

A new intersectional publication. Geared towards voices, values, and identities.

Danielle Hamner, MSW

Written by

Fearless leader for change/ Hip Hop fanatic/ Healing Guru/ Book worm/You can catch me quoting Jay Z lyrics on a daily. Inquiries: serenitytruth@gmail.com

An Injustice!

A new intersectional publication. Geared towards voices, values, and identities.

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