I have changed my name from Eric Schlachter to Eric Goldman. This note describes why.

 

On November 9, 1997, I married Lisa Sanger. In connection with the wedding, we were faced with 4 naming options:

 

·  Lisa could take my last name;

·  We could do nothing (i.e., each retain our existing names);

·  I could take Lisa’s last name; or

·  We could establish a new common name.

 

Notwithstanding “tradition,” I did not ask Lisa to take my last name. First, the name “Schlachter” is difficult to spell and pronounce. Second, I did not think it was fair to ask Lisa to do something (i.e., change her name) that I would not do for her.

 

Keeping our separate names would have created endless confusion, both immediately and when we have children. Second, and more importantly, it would imply a separation between Lisa and me that is inconsistent with our commitment to each other.

 

If I were willing to change my last name, as between taking “Sanger” or a new name, Lisa and I decided it was preferable to choose a new name. This way, we are able to establish a new common identity which is uniquely “ours” as a couple. Indeed, we chose “Goldman” because it is a hybrid of our mothers’ maiden names, which represents the joining of our families.

 

This document last modified December 24, 1997