Dr Smile breaks traditional norms, takes wife’s last name
"We[wanted] to be able to create a marriage where even on the surface is rooted in gender equality," says Dr Alexander Faizi Abedian-Rawháni.
Dr Alexander Faizi Abedian-Rawháni celebrates his name change. Photo: Instagram/lexleodrsmile
Bongani Bingwa speaks to Dr Alexander Faizi Abedian-Rawháni, aka Dr Smile.
Listen below.
In today’s society, if you get married your surname will likely change as a woman.
Turning the tables on societal norms, Abedian-Rawháni decided to take his wife’s surname.
“My wife and I, when we were dating and got engaged, we used to discuss this concept and how would we be able to create a marriage where even on the surface is rooted in gender equality.”
- Dr Alexander Faizi Abedian-Rawháni
Taking to his Instagram this week, he shared the good news of finally receiving his new ID from the Department of Home Affairs with the name change.
He says the process of getting the name change done was harder than expected.
“On the day when we got married, when we had to sign the marriage certificate, I learnt that I was not able to change my surname… it was not acceptable on the Home Affairs form.”
- Dr Alexander Faizi Abedian-Rawháni
While government documentation makes provisions for women to change their surnames, none are made for men.
This meant that Abedian-Rawháni had to go the legal route to get the name change.
“The journey was interesting… you have to go to Home Affairs, do official name change forms, affidavits from the police, the marriage certificate, hope they don’t lose the forms and be patient.”
- Dr Alexander Faizi Abedian-Rawháni
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