Proposal to Rename Argentine Municipality Hurlingham Sparks Identity Debate

Hurlingham, a municipality in Argentina known for its cultural contributions and British sporting heritage, is at the center of a debate over its name. A proposal has been put forth to change the district's name from Hurlingham to "Partido de la Reconquista."

The current name, Hurlingham, derives from the Hurlingham Club, founded in 1888 and associated with the Irish sport of hurling. The club is also linked to the world's oldest polo tournament, the Abierto de Polo de Hurlingham. However, a former councilor, Marcelo Suárez Nelson, argues that the name lacks clear meaning and connection to Argentine identity.

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The name Hurlingham means absolutely nothing, it has no translation. It is supposed to refer to a forgotten cemetery somewhere in England. But its meaning is uncertain.

Suárez Nelson's proposal, submitted to the Deliberative Council, suggests "Partido de la Reconquista" as a replacement. This new name would reference the Reconquista River, which borders the municipality. The former councilor cites the Malvinas War and the sacrifices made by Argentine soldiers as reasons to move away from British-derived identities and embrace a name that better reflects national history and claims.

The proposal has generated varied responses from Hurlingham's residents. While some express indignation at the idea of changing the name, others have reacted with humor, contemplating how iconic local songs, like Divididos' "Paisano de Hurlingham," would sound with the new name. Despite the debate, the municipality, currently governed by Damián Selci of La Cámpora, is expected to retain its name, as any ordinance change would require approval from the provincial legislature.

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They gave their blood for all of us and we cannot accept continuing with an English identity that does not recognize our history, nor our claims, nor our identity.