Kirsten Fermaglich

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For decades, native-born American Jews changed their names to improve their job prospects. Billion Photos/Shutterstock.com

Why are some Americans changing their names?

Kirsten Fermaglich, Michigan State University

The demographics of name change petitioners today – and the reasons that they give – tell a complicated story of race, class and culture.
Immigrants and inspectors in the registry room for legal inspections at Ellis Island.

Jewish Americans changed their names, but not at Ellis Island

Kirsten Fermaglich, Michigan State University

Thousands of Jewish immigrants and their children changed their names in America – but not at Ellis Island. The reasons are complicated and part of the Jewish struggle with their identity in America.

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