A Florida tattoo shop has ignited a firestorm of criticism after publicly stating it will not serve active-duty military members or veterans. Revival Tattoo Collective, located in Largo, Florida, posted on social media on June 23 that military personnel are unwelcome at the establishment.
In the post, the shop stated its founder's opinion that the military is comprised of "war criminals" and law enforcement "kills babies and unarmed citizens in the street." The shop indicated that any negative reactions to this opinion would only validate its stance, citing such responses as proof of the military's "true character."
The post explicitly stated, "Once again for the slow ones the military. Pretty simple if you are ex military or currently serving just don’t come to the shop. You will be turned away."
Revival Tattoo Collective was founded by Brady Martinson, who is described on the shop's website as a tattooist and sign painter specializing in script, blackletter, and custom typography.
The shop's declaration drew a range of responses online. While a few comments echoed the sentiment, with one user stating, "The military preys on underprivileged youth by luring them in with promises to pay for college and makes it sound like it’s their only opportunity to get ahead in life. ACAB," the majority of replies were critical.
Commentators expressed disappointment and labeled the shop's viewpoint as immature and prejudiced. "Judging an entire group by the actions of a few is the same type of prejudice I’m sure you claim to oppose," one person wrote. "There are good and bad people in every profession and every walk of life."
Another commenter stated, "I’ve served alongside people of every background imaginable and some of the most selfless, compassionate individuals I’ve met wear a uniform. Reducing millions of military members and law enforcement officers to the worst examples among them isn’t being 'woke' or smart — it’s just bias."
Others highlighted the distinction between freedom of speech and its consequences. "I don’t agree with your opinion, but that doesn’t mean I won’t fight for your right to say it. Please keep in mind that the First Amendment merely protects you from being punished by the government for your speech. It does not protect you from the consequences of what you say," one individual noted.
In response to inquiries, a spokesperson for Revival Tattoo Collective told Fox News Digital, "Yeah I’m booked up I can’t take any clients military or civilian. Thanks for your interest on my opinion."