Desire For Tattoo Removal Reflects Deeper Change
Desire For Tattoo Removal Reflects Deeper Positive Change
A new initiative by Ngai Te Rangi Iwi’s Peaceful Warrior programme focuses on removing tattoos with the aim of helping people move on with their lives after making a decision to leave gangs or step away from a criminal life.
The iwi programme, Ungloved, begins this coming Sunday April 18 and will use laser tattoo removal techniques to begin the process of putting more distance between a person and the reminders of a past they are often embarrassed about.
The term ‘Ungloved’ refers to the removal of the jail glove tattoo, that is a tattoo covering the back of the hand often blacked out or some feature such as spider webs or a thick line that frames the back of the hand to the first set of knuckles.
Ngai Te Rangi Iwi spokesperson Paul Stanley says for many in our community the past choices they have made are tattooed for all to see. But when that past involves gang connection or time in jail it becomes difficult for them to get a job or begin a new life.
“The work or mahi of the Peaceful Warrior service is to empower males and whanau to assist change. Ungloved complements those efforts. We seek to support deep change in lives and attitudes. When that happens we have noticed a wish for a change on the skin’s surface as well and so we are supporting that.
“We will assist anyone who makes courageous decisions and this is a practical way of making a difference for them,” he says.
Stanley says the iwi is providing a free initial session alongside Invisible Ink, a company that specialises in tattoo removal.
Often people will need four or five laser treatments for the work to be successful. The iwi is providing the first session free and the ability to seek advice about tattoo removal from someone who is doing it all the time. Not every tattoo can be removed so this session will give those who have questions a chance to talk to someone who knows what’s possible.
The session will be held from 10am to 4pm at the Te Rununga o Ngai Te Rangi Iwi office complex at Whareroa Reserve in Taiaho Place, just off Totara Street, Mount Maunganui.
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