Danillo and Catarina Prímola were forced to choose the banned name Piyé for their baby due to bullying fears.
Choosing a name for a newborn is a deeply personal decision for many parents.
However, what feels like a special choice can sometimes face unexpected obstacles.
Danillo and Catarina Prímola recently experienced this firsthand when Brazilian authorities banned their chosen name for their baby.
The ban was due to concerns over potential future embarrassment.
A name with historical significance
Danillo and Catarina Prímola selected the name Piyé for their son to honor the first Black Egyptian pharaoh.
Piyé was known for his role in building the El-Kurru pyramid and expanding the Temple of Amun.
The name, which translates to Piié in Brazilian Portuguese, was meant to reflect their baby’s African heritage.
It also honored the historical figure’s significant achievements.
The ‘Piyé name behind the controversy
The name ‘Piyé’ faced unexpected resistance from the Court of Justice and the Belo Horizonte registry office in the state of Minas Gerais.
Authorities expressed concerns that the name could lead to future embarrassment.
They cited its phonetic similarity to the ballet term plié
According to the Daily Mail, officials ruled against the name, stating that its sound and spelling could potentially expose the child to ridicule.
The court emphasized that the name’s resemblance to the ballet move was a significant factor in their decision.
The Parents’ perspective about the name.
Danillo Prímola shared that he and Catarina chose the name Piyé after being inspired by a theme song from the 2023 carnival.
The song highlighted the Black pharaoh.
They were motivated by the desire to connect their child’s name with African history and heritage.
Danillo expressed the importance of reviving African names as a way to honor and represent Black culture.
He stated, “Recovering African names is a powerful way to give a new narrative to the history of Black people.
We have the right to educate our children with this strength, this culture, and in a way that they have representation in their name.”
A reversal of fortune
Initially, the registry office and court’s decision seemed to shut down the name choice.
However, on September 13, a judge reversed the ruling, allowing Danillo and Catarina to name their son Piyé.
This reversal means that the Prímola family can now proceed with registering their baby.
They can ensure he receives his birth certificate and the necessary vaccinations.
Danillo and Catarina Prímola’s experience highlights the complex and sometimes controversial nature of naming practices.
While their initial choice faced challenges, the eventual approval of the name *Piyé* underscores the importance of cultural representation.
It also highlights parental rights in naming their children.
This case serves as a reminder of the balance between individual choices and societal norms.