Tennessee Mother Supports Daughter’s Name Change Amidteasing

A mother in Tennessee decided to let her teenage daughter change her birth name, Dixie, after the girl faced bullying at school. Fellow students reportedly accused her of being “racist” and criticized her name’s association with the Civil War-era South.

“She gets teased for it,” said Danielle Lemp, 35. In a TikTok video, she shared that she agreed without hesitation when her daughter expressed the desire to change her name. “I said yes, no questions asked!”

Now known as Skye, the 16-year-old explained her experience, saying she was constantly bullied and called names like “Dixie Dust” and “Dixie Normas” between classes. “They’d call me that in the hallway, giving all kinds of loose meanings,” she added.

Interestingly, when Skye was born in 2008, her father chose the name Dixie, although her mother had preferred Skye. This shift in identity is significant, particularly as the term “Dixie” has become increasingly controversial due to its links to the Confederacy and its pro-slavery history. Notably, the band The Dixie Chicks changed their name to The Chicks in 2020 amidst such discussions.

Danielle, who works at Burger King, has saved up $200 for her daughter’s legal name change. She expressed strong support for Skye, stating, “She’s a good girl. She’s doing well in school and doesn’t give me any problems. So if changing her name will make her feel better, why would I say no?”

Her TikTok post sparked a variety of reactions, some critiquing her decision to yield to her teenager’s wishes. One commenter argued, “No way. Teach your child resilience. If you let her change her name, what else would she want to change about herself?” In contrast, others expressed understanding and support, saying, “Everyone should change their name for free at least once.” One person, who also experienced bullying, reflected positively on their own name change, adding gratitude for Danielle’s approach.