A Symbol of Unity
Understanding the Meaning Behind My Safety Pin Tattoo
In a society that often promotes division and hostility, I want to make it clear that minorities can find refuge in my presence.
Recently, I’ve received inquiries about the tattoo I got inked this week. Instead of answering each question individually, I thought it might be more effective to share my thoughts here.
As many are aware, following the Brexit vote in the UK, there was a notable surge in xenophobic attacks against minority groups. In response, someone proposed the idea of wearing a safety pin as a symbol of solidarity, signaling to others, “I am a safe person.”
However, the origins of the safety pin as a symbol extend much deeper into history. During the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands, Dutch citizens discreetly wore the pin—often hidden under a collar—as a sign of support. Similarly, in Norway, paper clips were used to indicate that someone was “safe.”
Over time, these small gestures of defiance became perilous, with individuals risking their lives to wear the pin.
In America today, a resurgence of this movement is emerging, particularly in light of the current political climate characterized by nationalism, inflammatory rhetoric against minorities, and rising Islamophobia.
Some may dismiss the safety pin as trivial or insufficient. Disturbingly, even some neo-Nazis have appropriated the symbol to falsely present themselves as allies.
To me, this pin represents a crucial reminder of the consequences that arise when we fail to unite. It serves as a beacon for those who need to identify their allies amid challenging times. I will never stay silent when I witness the rights, freedoms, and safety of fellow Americans being compromised. I will always raise my voice against such injustices.
As for the lightning bolt tattoo, it harkens back to my love for the Harry Potter series. For those familiar with the story, when Harry was just a baby, Voldemort attempted to take his life but failed, leaving Harry with a lightning bolt scar. He survived due to the protective love of his parents.
Voldemort was rendered powerless for many years, hiding while some of his followers, the Death Eaters, remained in plain sight, disavowing their loyalty until his return.
This election has revealed to me the presence of those I had not previously recognized—those who harbor racist, misogynistic, and ethnocentric beliefs. While voting for Trump doesn’t automatically categorize someone as a Death Eater, complicity is undeniable. As hate crimes escalate daily post-election, I want it to be clear that those ideologies have no place in my heart.
The lightning bolt also signifies my commitment to choose my companions wisely. I hope you will do the same.
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In summary, my safety pin tattoo is a powerful emblem of solidarity and a commitment to stand against hatred. It serves as a reminder of the importance of identifying our allies and speaking out against injustice.
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