Client bill of rights

written by Tamara Santibañez and co-authored with K Lenore, this bill of rights outlines the rights and treatment a client should be able to expect during any tattoo experience.

It’s incredibly important to me that all clients feel safe, empowered, and heard when being tattooed. I felt it was important to include this as some affirmations for you when you come to your appointment! although the process can be daunting I hope that you feel safe enough to voice your feelings and needs, as that will always be my biggest priority.

1. The right to a clean and comfortable environment that follows best practices for health and safety.

2. The right to equal treatment and service regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, physical ability or health status.

3. The right to respectful communication, including the right to be addressed by your preferred name and correct pronouns and the right to be in an environment free of hate speech or verbal harassment.

4. The right to an artist technically and stylistically suited to your tattoo request, or a reference to someone who is.

5. The right to ask clarifying questions about the tattoo process and technical decisions that go into a design or placement limitation, and to have them answered with patience and respect.

6. The right to be asked for approval as to your final design, and regarding changes your artist may consider during your tattoo session.

7. The right to be asked for consent about physical contact and touch needed to perform your tattoo, including the adjustment or removal of clothing.

8. The right to request and be provided with provisions toward your personal privacy and comfort to the best ability of the artist and shop.

9. The right to have your accessibility needs met to the extent that the shop and artist are able to provide them, or a referral to a shop or artist who can best meet those needs.

10. The right to confidentiality around personal and private information, including the right to be asked for consent before photos of you are taken or posted.

11. The right to self-advocacy: to speak up and be heard if anything during your session does not feel right.