Ink of Hope: Equipping Tattoo Artists in Tennessee to Combat Human Trafficking
Human trafficking affects communities across Tennessee, often hidden in plain sight. Among the tools traffickers use to assert control over their victims are tattoos—symbols, names, or phrases that brand a person as property. Tattoo artists are uniquely positioned to play a vital contributor in identifying and reporting suspected trafficking. Yet, many lack the training needed to recognize the signs. That’s where the Ink of Hope Act comes in.
A New Frontier in Combating Trafficking
While states like Nebraska and Wisconsin have implemented general awareness campaigns, Tennessee has the chance to lead with a bold, targeted initiative: mandating human trafficking awareness training for tattoo artists. The Ink of Hope Act would equip these professionals with the tools to recognize red flags and act as frontline allies in the fight against trafficking. Here’s how it works:
- Training Requirement: Tattoo artists would complete a free, 15-minute online training video, which includes a brief quiz. The training would teach them how to spot potential signs of trafficking and how to report their concerns to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s (TBI) Hotline.
- Reporting Mechanism: In Tennessee, clients already need to provide a photo ID before getting inked. Under the proposed law, if a tattoo artist suspects trafficking, they can report the ID to the TBI without risking their safety or their business. Even fake IDs could be flagged, creating opportunities for law enforcement to intervene in the future.
- Licensure Process: The Tennessee Department of Health’s Environmental Health Division would verify completion of the training as part of the licensure process. Existing license holders would have a grace period to complete the training before their next renewal.
Building on Proven Success
This initiative draws inspiration from the YWCA’s Shear Haven program, which successfully trained cosmetologists and barbers in Tennessee to recognize signs of domestic violence. Passed in 2021, the program has empowered thousands of professionals to act as advocates for safety and change in their communities.
The Ink of Hope Act seeks to achieve a similar impact by extending these efforts to the tattoo industry. This bill aligns seamlessly with the mission of programs like the Tennessee Businesses Against Trafficking (TBAT), a state-led initiative through the Tennessee Secretary of State’s office and supported by organizations like Thistle Farms. Together, these efforts emphasize the role of businesses and professionals in creating a safer Tennessee.
Why It Matters
Human trafficking thrives in silence and ignorance, but the Ink of Hope Act transforms the relationship between tattoo artist and client into a potential lifeline for victims. Artists will be able to become part of the solution without compromising their safety or livelihood, continuing to serve their communities in new and meaningful ways. This initiative has the potential to save lives and send a powerful message: Tennessee is committed to protecting its most vulnerable citizens.
Join the Fight
The Ink of Hope Act is legislation and a call to action. Sign up for email updates and follow us on social media for updates on the bill’s progress this Legislative Session. Together, we can ensure that every tattoo artist in Tennessee is equipped to make a difference. Let’s turn ink into hope and create a future where no one has to live under the shadow of trafficking.
