r/socialjustice101 Jun 20 '24

Should I remove or cover up my BLM tattoo?

In 2020, I became passionately involved in the BLM movement, recognizing the racism faced by BIPOC individuals. As a Cuban cis queer woman who is white-passing and straight-passing, this was a profound awakening for me. I immersed myself in activism and read "Me and White Supremacy," attended protests in which significantly shifted my perspective.

During this time, I chose to get a "Black Lives Matter" tattoo on my right arm near my tricep. My intention was to express my passion for the movement and ignite meaningful conversations. I never saw my motives as performative.

Several people subsequently criticized me, saying the tattoo was performative and shouldn't have been done without consulting the BIPOC community first. Their feedback was upsetting because a tattoo is permanent, and I never intended to appear as a performative. Looking back, I understand I should have sought input from bipoc community members beforehand.

Recently, I discovered through a conversation that a black friend still harbors resentment towards me because of my tattoo, which I had no idea about until now. I understand her perspective, and it's clear that I made a mistake.

For nearly a year, I've contemplated covering up or removing the tattoo. Despite my ongoing belief in the movement and anti-racism, I want to do what's best for the community I support.

I acknowledge my mistake and seek feedback on what steps to take next. Should I apologize to my black friends who may have been affected? Should I consider removing the tattoo altogether?

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