And Your Name Is... What?; Addressing and Eliminating Name-Based Microaggressions in a Library Environment
Presentation
2:00 PM - 2:45 PMWed
Ballroom
Customer Service Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Presenters
Jessica Valli
Help & Information Desk Coordinator
Northeastern University
Names are more than our identifier; they honor our diverse backgrounds and cultures. This presentation session addresses the positive impact of correct name pronunciation on a library's cultural environment. Repeated name mispronunciations, assignment of an unwanted nickname, or name teasing are all microaggressions that negatively impact community member's socioemotional wellbeing. The practice of adopting English names to conform with the majority culture has been connected to lower self-esteem in minority communities. Learning to pronounce colleagues and patrons' names correctly builds a community trust and respect within your library's culture. Addressing and combating name-based microaggressions works towards allyship and anti-racism within your library community.