Renaming the Gulf of Mexico
It’s natural for me to feel confused about the recent change that appeared on Google Maps for U.S. users who now see the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. The change goes beyond a simple name shift because this new labeling challenges established historical and geographical realities of the region. For many centuries, the Gulf of Mexico remained a key part of who we are because it represents both the geographical location and the cultural connection between Mexico and its shoreline. The area has a rich past because our seaports as well as our cultural heritage and foodways continue to depend heavily on these bodies of water. The new name of the body of water stands as a removal of its genuine history while inserting a name that feels foreign to coastal communities. While changes to U.S. user maps show only a small part of the internet and remain limited to geographic naming conventions, names matter. Names embody both historical values and memories. When certain contexts allow the name change occurs it threatens to distort historical reality and diminishes how we understand the important role of this region. History and sovereignty require respect for Mexico. The body of water extends across coastlines of multiple nations because it belongs to all who live along its shores. We should embrace the name “Gulf of Mexico” to maintain accurate recognition of this shared marine area that unites people from different cultures on both sides of the international boundary. The Gulf of America exists on certain maps yet in the hearts of Mexicans this body of water continues to be known as the Golfo de México. No algorithm or label can change that.
