Names as Acts of Claiming and Belonging

Rabia's name itself carries spiritual significance—al-Adawiyya indicated her place of origin. Names root us in belonging. For diaspora members, especially those experiencing xenophobia or having their names mispronounced and delegitimized, the practice of claiming and bestowing names within found family becomes sacred. A found family member might receive a name reflecting their role, their character as seen by the community, or a name honoring their cultural heritage within the new context. This practice acknowledges that migration often strips away the social recognition embedded in names. Found family can restore this through deliberate naming—recognizing each member's particular contribution and identity. This concept validates the naming practices many diaspora communities naturally develop, framing them as spiritual practices of mutual recognition and belonging.