Editor's Note:

In our May 28, 2021 issue, we published an Op-Ed by Janice Athill titled "Are Seattle tattoo shops avoiding Black clients?" in which the author details an experience she had at a local tattoo parlor. The following is the owner of that tattoo parlor's response, unedited. -A.V. Eichenbaum, Associate Editor

To Janice:

We are deeply sorry that you had this experience at our shop. We have always made it our mission to provide a safe space for all to get quality tattoos and excellent customer service, and when advising people about tattoo work we try to come from a place of respect for the client and care for their expectations rather than a place of prejudice. My husband's comments do not reflect the policies of the shop, and as a result of this incident has been fired from working the front desk. I apologize for not being a better ally and accept responsibility for not better educating and training him before letting him be the face of the shop and for not adequately showcasing the diverse clientele that we have and the experience we have with varying skin tones. We are making changes to our training schedule to address this issue more prominently in the future and ensure that it will not happen again.

This all being said, I agree with the article and support bringing up the topic. It's something that has been plaguing the tattoo industry for too long. For decades, widespread racism, sexism, homophobia & transphobia have all been huge problems for the tattoo industry and only in recent times have we seen anyone taking accountability for it and striving to heal and make changes. When we opened Two Birds Tattoo 11 years ago, we felt there was a real need in the tattoo industry to create safe, welcoming inclusive spaces. This stemmed from our own experiences with sexism as women in the tattoo industry. It is our hope to continue to grow and understand our diverse and vibrant clientele and provide the best service we can.

Suzy Todd

Owner, Two Birds Tattoo