Roger Williams
Texas Secretary of State
P.O. Box 12697
Austin, Texas 78711-2697
Dear Secretary of State Williams:
I am writing to request that you allow Carole Keeton Strayhorn to include the moniker “Grandma” as part of her name on the ballot in her run for governor of Texas. You are allowing “Kinky” Friedman to include his nickname, as he has been enjoying its use for more than forty years.
I do not know whether the laws are similar in Texas and California, but as I understand it, one can change one’s name simply through regular use of the new chosen name. Strayhorn has apparently been referred to as “Grandma” for over ten years.
There was a small ruckus around here a couple of years ago when a candidate for local office listed her occupation as “psychologist” when she was not indeed certified with that title, but was technically a therapist. Strayhorn, however, is not trying to pass herself off as something she is not.
You are quoted as saying that the reason Strayhorn can not use the term “Grandma” is because it is a “slogan” and not a recognized nickname. A slogan, however, is generally thought of as a motto or saying. One does not rush into battle shouting “grandma.” I know of no states or even corporations that have “grandma” on their flags or letterhead.
“Grandma” is a nickname, but is even more than a nickname. It is a label of distinction, and once earned, its possessor should be able to use it as she likes.
Truly,
Liz Mann
