Tribute to the Second Surname: "Thanks to Our Mothers We Are a Little More Equal"
The article discusses a tribute to the use of maternal surnames in Spain, highlighting the practice of including both paternal and maternal surnames in journalistic signatures as part of a broader movement towards equality.
The article, published by El País, presents a tribute to the tradition of using maternal surnames in Spain, particularly in journalism, where both paternal and maternal names are now being encouraged. This shift was brought to light by El Diario de Sevilla's decision to adopt this practice on International Women's Day, allowing journalists to display both their father's initial surname and their mother's full surname. This change marks a significant cultural shift in how names are represented, challenging the historical dominance of paternal surnames in Spain.
The author shares a personal anecdote about Joan Serra Carné, a journalist who has made a conscious decision to always include both of his surnames. He explains that his choice was influenced by his father's illness and a desire to honor his mother for her caregiving role. This personal connection emphasizes the cultural importance of maternal surnames in Spanish society and how they are being celebrated and recognized through such practices. It reflects a growing awareness of gender equality and the need to acknowledge women's contributions more broadly.
The implications of this tribute extend beyond individual actions to a larger societal transformation. By normalizing the use of both surnames, there is a potential for more equitable representation and recognition of women's roles within families and society. The article highlights how this ongoing evolution in naming conventions challenges traditional gender norms and signifies progressive steps towards greater equality in Spain's cultural landscape.