It truly is fascinating to delve into the mindset of the contemporary college student.
In the age where many students believe the First Amendment to the Constitution does not protect so-called “hate speech,” it does protect, according to Cal State Fullerton’s Nikki Nadvornick, the “right” to tattoo oneself … and, it seems, have everyone accept it.
“The United States Constitution states within the guidelines of the First Amendment that we, as Americans, are entitled to our freedom of expression,” she writes. “Tattooing is an art form in terms of self-expression and individual freedom.
“While differing opinions is what makes America what it is today, it is not okay to actively discriminate for an archaic reason that is really nothing but a rampaging stereotype painted by closed-minded people who can’t think outside of the box.”
Nadvornick also cites a study which claims women suffer the brunt of tattoo “prejudice”:
Since women are judged harsher by their appearances compared to men, they are naturally on the receiving end for harsher criticism for choosing to express themselves through permanent body art.
Nicolas Guéguen, a psychologist from the Université de Bretagne-Sud, conducted a survey on Psychology Today to see how men react towards women with tattoos.
MORE: Students fund Tattoo Club, but deny support to ‘Yacht Club,’ calling it offensive, elitist
The results revealed that “the few studies that have focused on men’s perceptions of tattooed women have found that these women are seen in a generally negative light.”
Guéguen also points out within his study that men see women with tattoos as less attractive, but more promiscuous.
Nadvornick goes on to say that “[p]eople need to realize that those with tattoos are no different than those without,” comparing them to those who simply wear makeup or dye their hair:
“All of these things are primarily body modifications and it’s hypocritical to chastise anyone for their decisions.”
She concludes that hopefully Millennials will be the ones who “abolish the myth” that having a tattoo “means you won’t ever have a job.”
Well, “ever” sure is a long time, but look — while ultimately it’s none of my business if someone like the dude at left decides to decorate him/herself in such a manner, it is my business if the guy applies for a job at my company, especially for a position where he’ll directly be dealing with customers.
And it’s my right to say “I’m sorry, we can’t hire you.”
MORE: People with tattoos loves Obama
MORE: Tryout tips for cheerleaders are racist and promote ‘femininity,’ critics say
Like The College Fix on Facebook / Follow us on Twitter
IMAGES: Shutterstock, York Berlin/Flickr
Like The College Fix on Facebook / Follow us on Twitter
Please join the conversation about our stories on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Reddit, MeWe, Rumble, Gab, Minds and Gettr.