LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI )— "It's something that I've always offered," said the owner of Soldier Mike's Tattoos & Piercings Michael Lance.
For more than 10 years Lance has offered to cover up racist and offensive tattoos for free.
"It's something that's taught and it shouldn't be," said Lance.
It's an idea Lance said he started to lend a helping hand to people who want a fresh start.
"For the most part it's because people do change over time," said Lance. "A lot of people I have talked to and I've done tattoos with their whole way of life growing up was different."
People are able to submit an email through the shop's website or an inquiry via-Facebook. Once received there's a consultation process where the client sends in a photo or video of the racist or offensive tattoo they wish to be removed.
"Then I ask them a series of questions to see if their attitude and they actually really want change," said Lance. "It's not just for somebody who wants a free tattoo just to get one."
Lance said he's done more than 100 tattoos since he started offering the service.
"The lady I tattooed the other day she almost cried because it was something that has been on her for a while and she was forced to get it done," said Lance.
He said he advocates for second chances. In today's racial climate it's important that we help each other change for the better.
"We need to realize that we are here on this special planet and it's just, we need to get along," said Lance. "There's no room in the world for racism and hate. We love and have kindness and move forward all together, period."
Visit Soldier Mike's Tattoos & Piercing's website here.
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