Italian Court Rules Children Should Be Given Surnames Of Both Parents

Taylor Sakellis
parents on beach with child
Unsplash | Tim Mossholder

Children taking their father's last name is something so standard I've barely ever given much thought to it. However, now that I'm thinking about it... I'm kind of angry. How is it that women carry a child in their bodies for 9 months and then physically birth them just so they can turn around and have their father's last name? Now that doesn't seem fair, does it?

It's okay if you don't agree with me, though, because the Italian court does and is ruling to change this prehistoric practice.

As we know, last names can be a bit of a sticky topic for some couples.

say my name destiny's child
Giphy

While I believe every woman should have the choice to keep her maiden name (and should keep it) before tying the knot, I think it's safe to say most women still take their hubby's last name.

As long as everyone is happy and willing to accept whatever their partner chooses, that's all that matters!

woman signing paperwork
Unsplash | Leon Seibert

As for me, I will be clinging to my last name forever, and I promise that's not just because I hate government paperwork.

Now, a court ruling in Italy is looking to change another name tradition, and this time, it involves the children.

mom with her two children
Unsplash | Hillshire Farm

In a report shared by The Guardian, Italy's constitutional court has ruled that every child is to be given the surname of both of their parents.

In a statement, the practice of automatically naming children after their father was called "discriminatory and harmful to the identity" of the child.

girl power spice girls
Giphy | Spice Girls

The next step is setting out the new legislation, which has to be approved by parliament.

Honestly, I think it's a brilliant idea and more countries should follow in their footsteps!

h/t: The Gaurdian