The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requested that a driver named Isis Wharton change the phrase “IAMISIS” on the license plate of her white Kia, fearing that the text could be associated with the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).
“My name existed thousands of years before the terrorist group,” the driver told ABC 10. “It’s harmful to go after someone because of their name, and I think things like this should be looked at more carefully,” Isis continued.
Isis’s license plate is written in yellow letters on a black background with a frame resembling barbed wire. She insists she had no intention of referencing the terrorist group.
“My name was inspired by the Egyptian goddess, and she’s like the goddess of healing and motherhood, so it’s something much more peaceful than what they’re making it out to be,” Isis told the outlet.
The group that preceded ISIS, al-Qa‘ida in Iraq (AQI), was formed in 2004 before changing its name to ISIS in 2013, according to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.
The 26-year-old driver was notified that she must appeal the request by September 25 or the DMV would issue her new plates.
“I was confused because I’ve had it for so long, and honestly, I was really hurt.” The DMV stated that “ISIS” is not on the list of restricted license plates.
“I didn’t receive any objection from the DMV at first, so I thought everything would be fine,” said the young woman. The agency itself determines which plates are allowed or not.
Photos: Instagram @isisaviana. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
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