After marriage home affairs automatically changes a woman’s name to reflect her husband’s — presumptuous for a determined feminist, writes Derilene Marco WHEN my husband and I decided to wed, the question of what to do about a surname after the "I do" part was not the most prominent issue for either of us.When asked what my surname would be I had no answer. I had always assumed that I would double-barrel. However, when it came down to what I would actually do no answer felt completely right. After a little bit of panic, brought on mostly by the incessant questions from family and friends after the wedding, I decided I would keep my own surname for now. I could always change my mind, right?Wrong.When I got to my local home affairs office I found my name had been automatically changed to my husband’s. I felt a flash of panic. I told the very tired and bored-looking official that I did not want my husband’s surname, and that I needed some time to make a choice."Well, you need to choose...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.