A Symbol of Unity
What My Safety Pin Tattoo Represents & Why It’s Important
In a society where division and hatred are all too common, I want to make it clear that I stand with marginalized communities.
Recently, I received a tattoo that has sparked interest from my friends and family, prompting me to share its deeper meaning. Many have questions about the safety pin movement, so instead of responding to each inquiry individually, I thought I would shed light on it here.
The safety pin gained prominence after the Brexit vote in the UK, which unfortunately led to a rise in xenophobic attacks against minorities. The idea emerged as a way to signal solidarity — a way to communicate, “You can trust me.” However, the origins of the safety pin as a symbol of support go back even further. During the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands, people discreetly wore them to show their support for those in danger, hiding them under collars or clothing. Similarly, in Norway, paper clips were used as a sign of safety.
As time passed, these small gestures of defiance became incredibly risky, with individuals putting their lives on the line to wear such symbols.
Here in America, we find ourselves in a similar situation as we witness a resurgence of nationalism and harmful rhetoric against minorities. The safety pin is being reintroduced as a symbol of resistance against such ideologies.
Some people dismiss the safety pin as trivial or ineffective, and there are even instances of its co-opting by extremist groups who want to appear benign. But to me, it carries significant weight. It serves as a crucial reminder of the consequences of apathy and the importance of recognizing our allies during tumultuous times. I am committed to speaking out against any threats to the freedoms and safety of my fellow citizens.
Now, regarding the lightning bolt tattoo, it’s a nod to the Harry Potter series, which has always resonated with me. As many fans know, Harry survived an attack from Voldemort as a baby, leaving him with a distinctive lightning bolt scar. His survival was thanks to the love and protection of his parents.
In the wake of the recent election, I’ve come to realize that there were individuals among us who harbored darker views — those who may not have made themselves known until now. My intention is not to label everyone who voted for certain candidates, but to highlight the complicity in allowing such ideologies to flourish. The rise in hate crimes post-election has made it clear that these beliefs have no place in my life.
The lightning bolt also signifies my commitment to choosing my associations wisely. I urge you to do the same.
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In summary, my safety pin tattoo symbolizes my commitment to solidarity and resistance against hatred. It reminds me to stand up against injustice, to recognize my allies, and to choose my associations carefully.