The Documentary Podcast Heart and Soul: Should I change my name?
Dec 6, 2024
Explore the profound meaning of names and their ties to spirituality and identity. Robert Beckford grapples with the legacy of his slave surname and its implications. Delve into the transformative power of name changes across cultures, especially for those in the Dalit community in India. Hear personal stories within the Black community that highlight the emotional weight carried by names rooted in oppression. Discover how reclaiming names can serve as a powerful act of identity reconstruction and a way to honor heritage.
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Robert Beckford's visit to the Guildhall
- Robert Beckford visited the Guildhall in London to see Alderman Beckford's statue.
- Alderman Beckford, a slave owner, enslaved Robert's ancestors and gave them his surname as a brand.
Spiritual implications of a slave name
- Robert Beckford questions the spiritual implications of carrying a slave name.
- He explores whether changing his name would better reflect his identity and spirituality.
Anderson Jeremiah's name and identity
- Robert Beckford interviews Anderson Jeremiah, soon-to-be Bishop of Edmonton, about identity and name origins.
- Jeremiah, born in South India, discusses his non-traditional Indian name and its colonial baggage.