Licensing

Patricia Miye Wakida

Three years ago, I was married here in Los Angeles- at Zenshuji Soto Temple in Little Tokyo, to a wonderful man of Mexican American descent. Three weeks prior to the big day, I was confronted with a [something] choice: do I remain a Wakida or do I become a Arbizo?

It wasn’t an easy decision; I was truly conflicted. I asked women all around me for their opinion. I carefully discussed it with my fiancé for his feelings on the subject.

It was a matter of identity to me. Part of me had always been Patricia Wakida and felt loyal to that. I adore my family and love my Nikkei identity. Professionally, I didn’t want to lose my identity either.

I questioned the tradition of changing names and why marriage had the power to transform me.