"I am thinking about
changing my name..."
Many transgender, non-binary and gender-diverse children and adults wish to change their name to one that resonates more with them.
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Often individuals want a less "gendered" name.
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See the "Identity Docs" section for information on the steps to legally change a name.
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GENDER NEUTRAL NAMES
15 Unisex last names that make cool first names
By Lisa Milbrand. Parents e-magazine, August 2019.
"If you're having a hard time settling on the perfect baby name, we've got you covered. Consider these unisex last name options that can work for both boys or girls."
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By Kara Nesvig. Parents e-magazine, updated June 5, 2023.
"From timeless favorites to trendy new picks, here are a selection of gender-neutral baby names to add to your list."
100 Gender-Neutral Names for Your Baby
Meanings, origins, popularity, and variations for 100 gender-neutral names
By Donna Murray, RN. BSN Updated on August 17, 2022.
"A gender-neutral name is unisex, meaning you can give it to a baby girl or a boy. Some gender-neutral names like Avery and Kennedy are traditionally last names that turned into first names after enough people started using them as given names. Other names are used for any gender and/or are experiencing trends toward gender neutrality.
For example, the names Dana, Ashley, and Leslie were once mainly used for boys but are now increasingly common for girls. Names like Noah, Jodie, Kai, Charlie, Skylar, and Finely are all now frequently used for boys and girls. Plus, you can also pick any name you want for your child, regardless of the gender it is typically associated with. The important thing is to choose the name that you feel best suits your child.
There are many reasons to consider a gender-neutral name when deciding what to name your child. It may be a family name. You may believe it will help to prevent gender stereotyping or sexism in your child’s future. You may like the idea of a gender fluid name, or you could be thinking about how your kid's gender identity might evolve over time. Or, you may just think unisex names are unique, cool, cute, and fun!
Whatever the reason, more and more families are trending toward using gender-neutral names for their babies. And, while there was a time when it seemed a little odd to use a last name as a first name or to take a more traditionally male name and use it for a girl or vice versa, those practices are now commonplace. So, if you do choose this type of name, your child will surely know other kids with unisex names, too."
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