“I am nothing but a bloody amoeba. I am the only man in the country not allowed to give his name to his own children.”
These bitter words belong to the late Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, angry and hurt that he had to surrender his male privilege to his wife, the Queen. To placate her husband, Her Majesty promptly changed their children's last names from Windsor to Mountbatten-Windsor.
Gender equality is tricky to navigate because it encompasses a myriad of issues, big and small. From the gender pay gap and abortion laws to the pink tax and school dress codes, sexism is everywhere. Though society has grown significantly over the years, we have much more learning to do.
Take last names, for example. Over centuries, women have changed their last names upon marriage, a gesture that suggests she is property, handed over from father to husband. Although women now retain their maiden names, it is still common for children to take their father’s name. We still regard the father as always the head of the family. But why is he the most important member? Why can't women even aspire to have that privilege?
Last names, you may argue, are irrelevant. Sure. Let’s take a look at careers. Over the years, the notion that women cannot work outside of their homes has been challenged. The pressure has encouraged even the most conservative households to reconsider their stance. However, women are still encouraged to quit their jobs upon pregnancy or relocate according to their partner’s needs. As wonderful as it is that society has come to terms with working women, is it not unfair that her career always takes second place? Why is she still expected to place her family and spouse above herself?
My question to you is this: when will families take their mother’s last name? When will husbands relocate to accommodate her career? When will fathers quit their jobs to manage domestic affairs? If even Her Majesty the Queen couldn’t be the head of her family, what chance do the rest of us have?