Is this doing good? Or shameless exploitation?
What if a victim of child abuse agrees to be tattooed as part of your campaign? And what if a child abuse charity stands to gain from the publicity? Is it still exploitation?
I have read a press release we were sent today from a PR agency in Queensland a few times over. And every time it makes me shudder. Here’s the first paragraph: “Harshmellow Media + Design launched a year-long fundraising campaign for photo book Townsville INK yesterday (March 2, 2011) with a North Queensland man and former victim of child abuse making a lasting commitment to child protection by having the logo of charitable organisation ACT for Kids tattooed on himself.”
Seven picked up the news, and ran a story featuring the victim being tattooed by a local tattoo artist whose work is to run in said photo book, Harshmellow’s client. Here’s a clip that was posted on YouTube:
The idea behind tatooing this man is to generate enough publicity to encourage 100 tattooed people of Townsville in North Queensland to feature in the photo book, the proceeds from which will go to ACT for Kids. It also promotes the talents of local tattoo artists.
Fair enough. But I find there’s still something very creepy about this campaign. And the last sentence of the press release smacks of making the most of someone else’s misfortune: “According to Mr Hatfield the tattoo is a chance to put something positive on his skin, alongside the scars that remind him of his violent childhood.”
Cringe. The connection between tattoos, scars and child abuse I find to be crass to the point of being offensive. On calling Harshmellow, I was assured that Michael Hatfield, who the Seven report pointed out was “viciously beaten from the age of 4”, jumped at the chance to be tattooed for charity. The release also hurriedly points out that this is a pro bono campaign.
Here is a small agency in need of some publicity, which it has been eagerly discussing on its LinkedIn page. The campaign will no doubt do good, and was probably executed with the best intentions. But am I being too cynical in thinking that this is a case of an agency going too far – as is often the case with charitable campaigns that those behind them insist on shouting about – and perverting a worthy message in the process?
Robin Hicks
It is FNQ. Usual rules don’t apply up there.
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finding tattoos, scars and child abuse a bit offensive??
what sort of world do you live in? what gives you the right to to deem scars of his past as “offensive”
pull your head in you internet hero and experience the real world
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Are you serious? Come talk to us when you have been abused. How ignorant, insensitive and crass can you be! This book raised over $10000 for the charity last year. Who are you to cheapen that? Not only is it beautiful artwork and amazing photography but its going to a better a cause than your salary.
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First off, it must have taken some guts for Michael to put himself out there in the public light as a victim of childhood abuse. Good on you Michael.
As far as Dr Mumbo’s comments are concerned, this is a tricky and sensitive subject matter that is difficult to market to the masses.
But look, they got their message into lots of loungerooms that night and we’re talking about it here online.
You may not like the packaging, but you can’t deny the power of the product.
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I wonder if this depends on your subconscious atitudes to tattoos? Tim, you might view tattoos in a different light to how this guy does.
Understandable, tattoos are awash with negative imagery including criminalty, nazi camps, human branding and general youth rebellion.
But they have also changed their meaning for a couple of generations (who did the repositioning job on tattoos?) and gained respectability and fashionability …at least for now!
Perhaps Tim you have some of the former attitudes/responses lurking around your head?
Generally, I find this campaign more odd than offensive.
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Hi anonymous (8.57).
In this case, the above piece was actually written by my colleague Robin (admittedly, it’s easy to overlook the name at the end of the item).
My feelings are similar to Robin though. It seems to me the issue isn’t about somebody choosing to get a tattoo. It’s more about an agency persuading them to do it.
Personally, I’m not sure any agency should be in the business of asking victims of anything make permanent changes to themselves.
Cheers,
Tim – Mumbrella
Robin,
I can assure you that this campaign does not seek to induce reactions such as your own and hope that people familiar with ACT for Kids and the amazing work they do will better understand the context of Michael’s decision to have this tattoo.
For many years ACT for Kids has run “Tatts and Tiaras” fundraisers that are iconic in Queensland and provided the inspiration for the first volume of Townsville INK, which was launched in 2010. Mr Hatfield featured in the first book, — along with one of his several pre-existing tattoos — is eager to break the silence on child abuse and has been consulted on every step of the campaign that he’s been involved in.
I think it’s important to recognise the vast cultural differences between North Queensland and Australia’s capital cities and would like to note that Michael’s decision has been applauded by the Townsville community. Infact, a dozen people have expressed an interest in having the same tattoo themselves. Unprompted.
It’s a shame that you would associate tattoos with scars rather than view them as an individual’s right to self expression.
As for Harshmellow — we do not represent the tattoo studio that inked Mr Hatfield and our social media updates have been pivotal in keeping the tight-knit Townsville INK community informed of the goings on.
Sarah Mathiesen
Harshmellow Media + Design
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Hi Robin,
While we are saddened that people may take offense to such a positive commitment, we will take the opportunity to keep the discussion going – we know child abuse and neglect is a controversial issue that, unfortunately, most people are uncomfortable talking about.
Michael is an adult, a loving husband, a caring father, being a survivor of abuse is only part of his story. Michael’s decision to make such a bold, public statement in support of our work was his own and we appreciate both his commitment and Kate Glover’s fundraising efforts. Trying to raise funds in this economic climate is incredibly difficult, particularly after recent natural disasters.
ACT for Kids provides free professional therapy to treat and prevent child abuse and neglect, and has for over 20 years. The intensive therapy needed to help a child who has experienced significant trauma from abuse and neglect is not a short-term, out of the textbook, process. It takes time, a team of psychologists, social workers, speech therapists, occupational therapists, early education specialists and family coaches – and a lot of money.
To give some context to Kate’s book and Michael’s tattoo, ACT for Kids used to be known across Queensland for our “Tatts and Tiaras” day campaign – embraced by Townsville. Every Valentines’ Day supporters across the state would sell merchandise to raise funds; glittery tiaras and temporary tatts – people “badged up” to show support.
We thank Townsville, Kate and Michael, and those media outlets who covered the story in the vain it was intended – unfortunately, gaining positive media coverage is very difficult when it’s the sensational stories of child harm that are of interest to the media.
Yes, you are being too cynical. We encourage everyone to face up and ACT, if you want to contribute positively, perhaps you have some ideas or contacts that could assist us with our Child Protection Week Appeal in September?
Regards,
Kelly
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You know what I find far more offensive than this?
Agencies that do so-called charity work for the EXPRESS PURPOSE of winning metal at shows.
Providing your services free of charge, providing the client runs absolutely anything you create. Pulling a million favours to get a single high-production value spot made, but your interest ends the moment it runs once at 3am on some bumblefuck regional TV station.
The agencies that do this don’t give a shit if it works. They don’t care if it helps even a single person. They just want metal. They may kid themselves into thinking they’re doing good with their pro-bono efforts, but if they honestly ask themselves this question:
“If there was a change I could make to the work that ruined its chances of winning at the shows, but made it more effective, would I do it?”…
In the many cases, the answer would be “No.”
I’ve seen this happen on countless occasions. I’ve done it once myself, to my eternal shame. I know plenty of people who think this way.
At least this looks like a very genuine attempt to create a campaign that might actually do something for the cause.
In my opinion, invective and/or criticism would be better spent elsewhere.
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To answer your question Robin, yes I believe this is doing good.
As an adult survivor of child abuse I applaud the efforts made by Harshmellow and can grasp the cultural significance of body ink in Nth Qld. If this campaign manages to generate publicity for ACT for Kids and in turn creates a knock on effect for Harshmellow, that won’t be what keeps me awake at night.
As a side note- bravo John (3 Mar 11 11:40 pm).
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Hi All
Given that you’re all talking about ME (Michael Hatfield). I want to make it CRYSTAL CLEAR that this post is purely my thoughts and opinions and has nothing to do with any PR organisation, Charity or anyone else.
First off, unless you wake up with the scars that I see on a daily basis, and have done so for 35+ years, then you have absolutely no right to speak on my behalf. I find that level of ignorance very hard to accept.
1. I have several tattoos, this is not my first. Each of my tattoos represent something very close to me. I have a large tattoo that takes up the complete right hand side of my back that is koi fish swimming upstream and transforming into a dragon. This tattoo represents my journey against turbulent waters to become a protector. The second tattoo that I have is a lion and lioness that represents myself and my beautiful wife. The third is an arm band which is yin and yang, nothing good comes without accepting the bad.
2. The idea of the tattoo of the ACT for Kids logo was first discussed almost a year ago now, and I jumped at the chance to be a part of this. As an abused child, and now an adult, I have always said that I have the power to be able communicate on behalf of abused children as an adult. Because, unless you have been there, you cannot understand anything about it.
So, then comes the assumption that I have been taken advantage of for the campaign, really! So, you hadn’t heard of ACT for Kids, you hadn’t heard of Townsville Ink, and you had never ever heard of me, or spoken to me … At the risk of sounding like an old man … how dare you!
I chose to be involved in this because it is the perfect opportunity for me to be able to make some noise about a topic that I am so very passionate about. The physical and psychological abuse that resulted in me losing my childhood, has given me some invaluable experience to be able to educate and help others. This tattoo, wow, I am honestly so proud to be wearing it. I look at it and know that I have not only personally made a commitment to work towards ending child abuse, but I have made that intent visual in the hope that people will talk to me about it.
Grab yourself another latte, and pull your chair in and send me a response, or contact Sarah at Harshmellow for my personal phone number … talk to me before you talk for me.
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Damn. I feel asleep just before 3am while watching the ShamWow and missed the spot.
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No brainer Robin – this aint so Crass.
@ My friend Adgrunt, whilst I agree with your FNQ belief – in this case I think you are wrong
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@ Tim “Personally, I’m not sure any agency should be in the business of asking victims of anything make permanent changes to themselves.” Why do you say that?
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I saw this in B&T yesterday and felt proud that an “Agency” in Townsville was recognised down here. I’ve been here near on 5 years and the first thing I noticed was a massive culture difference. Up North, the focus is on achieving client objectives, without the ego. It’s all hands on deck to come up with the best solution, awards aren’t even mentioned. Because budgets are too small, campaigns are ‘insignificant’ or mean nothing compared to the ‘big state’? Maybe. In fact, most probably.
“Here is a small agency in need of some publicity”? Why? Because that’s what’s assumed when something deemed different and unusual by a southern market gets attention? Something from some totally Hicksville town? The number of times I was told that my 4yrs experience up North meant nothing down here is prime example – yet take any account manager out of their agency, send them up north and watch them sink under pressure.
I say congratulations guys, the tatts and tiaras ball has been going for years and to see a fresh perspective on a worthy and long-running cause get this attention is something to be really proud of.
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I am starting to have second thoughts about Mumbrella.
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“The release also hurriedly points out that this is a pro bono campaign.”
Was it hand-written? How could you tell it was written in a hurry?
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This a bit ridic TBH
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I think it is worth noting that a huge part of healing for victims of child abuse, is to stand up and say “I have been abused, it wasn’t my fault, and I am not ashamed of it”.
Nothing says that louder than a tattoo and Michael should be proud of himself!
To tattoo anything on your body is a big decision, and not one many people would take lightly. I am guessing that these “victims” have a mind of their own, and that anyone who would invest their time in a worthy cause such as this would have the decency not to pressure someone into tattooing themselves.
This has been a successful campaign , and one that the agency deserves a bit of positive publicity from.
What IS creepy is how you could suggest that a charity for Child Abuse is “perverting a worthy message”… and just a little ignorant.
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Bravo Michael, I also am an adult survivor of child abuse and what you have done, and the guts to ACT and speak out in such a public way, is something I would never in a million years be able to do. I also was in Townsville Ink VOL 1, and loved everything about it. Not only did I get to see myself as beautiful with some amazing photography( Something which, might I add, is very difficult for me due to my childhood and the scars left), but I got donate to an amazing charity who I sure as hell wish I had known about when I was dealing with my past.
The author of this piece ought to be ashamed of themselves for trying to turn something strong and amazing, into a cheap journalistic piece.
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@ Curious: “hurriedly points out” does not suggest the release was written in a hurry. Rather that the release was in a ‘hurry’ or ‘made the point’ that it was pro-bono work.
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Yes, I think this is exploitative – of the public, mostly. It is a simple story and really did not merit the attention.
Cut the moral crap: tattoos are still controversial or this would never have been a story. In fact Hatfield, Harshmellow and 7 misled and exploited the public by not mentioning his other tattoos.
Clearly Michael Hatfield did this willingly and got the results he wanted. Good for him. It is not a novel concept, but it remains newsworthy because many people still associate tattoos with negative issues. The stunt clearly exploits this to demonstrate Hatfield’s strength of commitment. Had we known about his other tattoos it would not be such a big story.
The media release plays on the ethical tension and reads as glib tabloid fodder. That is reflected in the news coverage. Well done Harshmellow, so far. But
Sarah Mattheisen is disingenuous to the point of dishonesty in saying here that “It’s a shame that you would associate tattoos with scars”, since that is the association quoted from her own media release.
Good call Robin.
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“Cringe. The connection between tattoos, scars and child abuse I find to be crass to the point of being offensive. ”
I think this is where you crossed the line into offensive yourself Robin,
The fact you wrote this article without even speaking to the man involved is quite off.
Shame on you for allowing yourself to be so cynical and opinionated – and not having the good sense to apologise.
It appears to me that it is indeed Mumbrella who is taking advantage of this situation. And THAT is ‘cringeworthy’.
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This is an area of special interest of mine, and now combining my many years in advertising with advanced life coaching training and neuro-linguistics, I can have a different perspective to bring here.
I think that there are a lot of people in our industry that genuinely mean well when it comes to charity work and it seems to me this is one of those, including Mumbrella’s concern that survivors are supported appropriately. It seems they both come from the same place.
There is evidence to show that having a survivor thinking of others and supporting the wider cause is helpful in healing, and I support that – I feel that Michael Hatfield is wonderful in how he is dealing with this himself and for others, and is a fantastic role model. Thanks Michael.
My caution though is that having a tattoo for some further engrains them unconsciously into the negativity of the past event rather than help them. The tattoo can become a subconscious anchor to the negativity of the past rather than the self-power suggested. So, providing the anchor is connected to healthy healing messages and empowerment (as it seems Michael sees it that way) then it will be helpful. I trust all those involved will take care that this is respected to best support all survivors and aware of the possibility of it back-firing for those less advanced than Michael. Because of this risk I’d rather the campaign didn’t go this far; well meaning as it is.
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My caution though is that having a tattoo for some further engrains them unconsciously into the negativity of the past event rather than help them. The tattoo can become a subconscious anchor to the negativity of the past rather than the self-power suggested.
Anne, I have a question.
Were you abused as a child? The negativity of that event NEVER goes away. Given all your education, I would think you would realise that.
The tattoo in itself is no anchor for negativity, because an anchor doesn’t exist, its there regardless of what’s holding you down.
THINK all you want, unless you’ve been in the situation, your thought’s as well meaning as they may be, have no basis.
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@… “Your thoughts as well meaning as they may be, have no basis’… Actually the do. There is help available to reduce the effects of the trauma. Your point that the abuse never leaves you is actually my point. That the tattoo just keeps it there when there are tools available to you to help reduce the trauma. This tattoo concept keeps it there in the wrong way, potentially.
I do know trauma by the way.
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Then you should know that such a thing as a tattoo is not what’s going to anchor you to the negativity. Get off the band wagon.
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Wow.. If you would like a therapist to assist you with the trauma I am happy to help refer you.
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And how much money would you make for that referral?
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You really need to seek help. Your attacks are completely wild. You can’t even take an offer for free help without turning it into something else. There are solutions for you (no, no money in it for me) to reduce your pain. Your behaviour is anti-social right now and you need to look at solutions for yourself.
Try NLP – Neuro-Linguistic Programming – Look it up and find a practitioner near you. Alternatively EFT: Emotional Freedom Technique. The emotional ‘zzzt’ you are likely to feel when you think about certain things can be reduced to nothing and the past is a memory you can’t lose but it can feel better day to day. It worked for me anyway with my own situation.
All the best.
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Once again, for someone who is so educated, you sure are defensive. I haven’t been attacking you, I just asked some questions, and made some statements, in no way Ättacking you. Im fine with what happened to me, just sick of people on the band wagon turning a good thing into something negative just for the sake of putting their two cents in and flashing their business website.
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Goodness, people sure are getting excited. I had forgotten that there were so many people reading this post and actually trying to get their point across.
The tattoo, doesn’t anchor me to anything. I wear it with pride and love it. And I personally view it as my stand and support for ACT for Kids. No more, No less.
Yeah, I tried the Counselling thing, what did I get for it? A prescription for some blue tablets that made me sleepy.
In the end, for me, it was accepting that it happened and moving forward.
I am trying not to be insulting here, but I honestly found that “book smarts” didn’t help me deal with anything. I sat down with one beautiful lady several years ago who just spoke to me with no bias, and I got more out of that than any visit to any counsellor.
What works for one person, doesn’t work for another. That’s the beauty of the human spirit, we are all individuals.
I have no baggage, no ill feelings, and certainly no anchor to what hapened in the past. What I do have is ACTUAL experience that I have been able to use to my advantage to talk with some form of authority with the specific intent of raising awareness of a wonderful organisation that truly does help and offer great support without any government or religious bias. What this means to me, is there is no hidden agenda, only assisting the child and family. Which is what this is all about.
Again … this is all my personal opinion, but I can assure you, book smarts and assumptions don’t even get you close to understanding my life’s journey.
Peace to all :o)
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Fabulous POV Michael. I can see how well you have managed this. Congratulations. You are a great example and if others could learn from you that is a wonderful way to give something so valuable to the world and the intention of the campaign no doubt. It would be great if every survivor could learn from you and project such a tone of peace.
You don’t seem one for assuming and you didn’t say it directly – but don’t assume my responses come from books and all theory as others have. My personal view on psychologists is that it is all about the problem and not about solutions, as you sound like you experienced too. I have limited respect for the profession. Your strategy of focusing on the result you want and not living in the problem is the key to success in my humble opinion and experience…which links back to my original point.
All the best for the cause. You deserve a wonderful life. :o)
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Thank you Anne, greatly appreciate your kind words.
Anyone reading this post, if you do want to see what’s going on, or just check me out, look me up on Facebook. You’ll see a bit about me, my family, and general lifestyle.
You’re absolutely right, There’s a beautiful John Williamson song, that has a line “Heaven’s all around you woman, how can you see it if you cry?”.
Sure, I’ve had a tough life, but I’m not the only one, perception is reality, my reality is tough for me, and yours is for you (not specifically yourself Anne, but everyone in total), but the two side by side may not compare, but it doesn’t make it any less real for any individual.
The best thing I ever did was say to myself, “yep, it happened, but what sort of life do I want to live?” If you know the life you want to live, it’s only you that can make the decisions that allow that to happen.
You cannot reach your destination if you’re navigating by a rear view mirror.
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