The Dark Side of Tattoos: A Symbol of Regret or Redemption?
As Graham Platner, a progressive Democrat, recently discovered to his dismay, tattoos can be more than just a form of self-expression – they can also be a painful reminder of past mistakes. The Democrat's decision to post a topless photo on the internet showcasing a skull-and-crossbones tattoo, a widely recognized Nazi symbol, sparked widespread online criticism and forced him to confront his past.
However, Platner is not alone in this struggle. Across the United States, there are numerous national non-profits that offer free or low-cost tattoo removal programs, with many more resources available for those who want to cover up hateful ink. These services cater to individuals who have regrets about their past choices and want to erase symbols of white supremacy from their bodies.
"I've seen it all, including some pretty bad ones," says Kate Widener, an advanced esthetician and owner of Undo Tattoo and Laser in Oregon. "But they just pop in, pop out, and soon it's gone." Widener averages around 70 tattoo removals a week, with about 25% being part of her free program.
Despite the rising popularity of hate tattoo-removing services, some experts are sounding a warning bell. Dustin Ortel, who oversees the Ink-nitiative program at Removery, notes that while many people genuinely change their ways, others may be hiding behind the removal process. "It's not just about changing your skin; it's about changing your mind," he cautions.
Widener agrees that removing or covering up hate tattoos is always an intimate process that requires close contact and trust between client and technician. While many people come to her service out of a genuine desire for redemption, others may be driven by a sense of discretion – they don't want their coworkers to know about their past associations.
For some, the motivation behind tattoo removal stems from falling in love or having their worldview expanded. One of Widener's clients was brought up in a racist family but changed his mind after entering an interracial relationship. He now wants to honor his mixed son by getting a new tattoo.
The ebb-and-flow popularity of hate tattoo-removing services seems to follow the headlines, with increased interest when hate crimes hit the news. However, some experts believe that this trend may be linked to the recent presidency and its rhetoric. Widener attributes the decline in interest among her clients to the Trump administration, which she believes has emboldened far-right groups.
Despite these concerns, many professionals involved in free tattoo removal or cover-up programs remain committed to their services. Lorenzo Diaz, an artist at Ruby Tattoo in Michigan, reports that he receives around three or four large, dark pieces per week. While some may question the effectiveness of these services or worry about potential repercussions, Widener remains judgment-free, letting everyone come in with a promise: "I control a laser that can cause harm."
As Graham Platner, a progressive Democrat, recently discovered to his dismay, tattoos can be more than just a form of self-expression – they can also be a painful reminder of past mistakes. The Democrat's decision to post a topless photo on the internet showcasing a skull-and-crossbones tattoo, a widely recognized Nazi symbol, sparked widespread online criticism and forced him to confront his past.
However, Platner is not alone in this struggle. Across the United States, there are numerous national non-profits that offer free or low-cost tattoo removal programs, with many more resources available for those who want to cover up hateful ink. These services cater to individuals who have regrets about their past choices and want to erase symbols of white supremacy from their bodies.
"I've seen it all, including some pretty bad ones," says Kate Widener, an advanced esthetician and owner of Undo Tattoo and Laser in Oregon. "But they just pop in, pop out, and soon it's gone." Widener averages around 70 tattoo removals a week, with about 25% being part of her free program.
Despite the rising popularity of hate tattoo-removing services, some experts are sounding a warning bell. Dustin Ortel, who oversees the Ink-nitiative program at Removery, notes that while many people genuinely change their ways, others may be hiding behind the removal process. "It's not just about changing your skin; it's about changing your mind," he cautions.
Widener agrees that removing or covering up hate tattoos is always an intimate process that requires close contact and trust between client and technician. While many people come to her service out of a genuine desire for redemption, others may be driven by a sense of discretion – they don't want their coworkers to know about their past associations.
For some, the motivation behind tattoo removal stems from falling in love or having their worldview expanded. One of Widener's clients was brought up in a racist family but changed his mind after entering an interracial relationship. He now wants to honor his mixed son by getting a new tattoo.
The ebb-and-flow popularity of hate tattoo-removing services seems to follow the headlines, with increased interest when hate crimes hit the news. However, some experts believe that this trend may be linked to the recent presidency and its rhetoric. Widener attributes the decline in interest among her clients to the Trump administration, which she believes has emboldened far-right groups.
Despite these concerns, many professionals involved in free tattoo removal or cover-up programs remain committed to their services. Lorenzo Diaz, an artist at Ruby Tattoo in Michigan, reports that he receives around three or four large, dark pieces per week. While some may question the effectiveness of these services or worry about potential repercussions, Widener remains judgment-free, letting everyone come in with a promise: "I control a laser that can cause harm."
i mean graham platner's tattoo situation might be super uncomfortable but at least he's owning it and being open about his regret 
meanwhile kate widener's free tattoo removal program in oregon is literally a lifesaver for so many ppl struggling with hateful tattoos 
let's keep spreading love and acceptance instead of hate 
.
. I mean, who thought it was a good idea to get a tattoo of something thats literally hated by everyone? 
. Its not just about physically removing the tattoos, its about having an honest conversation with yourself about who you want to be and what values you want to represent on your body 
.
We should all be more careful about what we put on our bodies because its a permanent representation of ourselves 
.
The whole thing is just so weird for me... like I get it, tattoos can be super personal and stuff, but the idea of using them as a way to erase past mistakes? That's just a lot of emotional baggage right there 
. Can't we all just be honest with ourselves and each other about our choices, you know? 
. It's like people are trying to prove they're not racist or whatever... but honestly, can't we just have a real conversation about it instead of resorting to ink-removal services 
. Like, can you just erase the memories on your skin? 
Wouldn't that be awesome? 
.
I guess that's a tough one... 
.
. Like, can we ever really be free from our pasts? 
That's so inspiring! 
IT'S LIKE THEY THINK THE INK IS GOING TO JUST DISAPPEAR ON ITS OWN WITHOUT THEM DOING ANY WORK. NEWSFLASH: IT DOESN'T! 
. And, honestly, I don't think anyone should be shamed for wanting to change their mind (or get a new tattoo) 
. btw, can u blame anyone for wantin 2 get rid of hateful symbols on their body? 
. For some, it's about erasing a reminder of past associations or actions, while for others, it's about creating something new that represents their growth and changed worldview. It's like they're getting a second chance 
That's where Dustin Ortel's words come in - changing your skin isn't enough, you gotta change your mind too. That's a tough but important distinction to make.
) to those who need help on their journey towards healing and growth 
no one really thinks about the emotional weight of having to live w/ it. for some ppl, its a symbol of a painful past, but 4 others, its a form of intimidation & control... we need 2 be havin conversations about why ppl choose these tattoos in the first place, not just how 2 remove them 
. Some people need help taking those symbols off their bodies because they've changed and want a fresh start 
. It shows that people care about helping others make amends 
. Like, if you're gonna come in for a tattoo removal, it's gotta be because you're genuinely trying to change, not just hiding something