A Florida tattoo shop is drawing widespread criticism after announcing on social media that it would refuse service to active-duty Military members and veterans, prompting a wave of backlash online.
According to Fox News, Revival Tattoo Collective in Largo posted a message on June 23 defending the owner’s views on the military and law enforcement while telling former and current service members not to visit the business.
The post stated, “People all in their feelings because I expressed my opinion of the military and law enforcement. My opinion is that the military is a bunch of war criminals and law enforcement kills babies and unarmed citizens in the street.”
The message continued by saying critics would not change the owner’s opinion despite personal attacks, threats, and insults.
It also included a direct warning aimed at military members.
“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,” the post said.
According to the shop’s website, Revival Tattoo Collective was founded by Brady Martinson, who specializes in script, blackletter, and custom typography tattoo work.
The social media comments quickly filled with reactions from both supporters and critics.
One supporter argued that the military targets underprivileged young people with promises of educational opportunities before adding the phrase “ACAB,” an abbreviation commonly interpreted as “all cops are b*****ds.”
Many others strongly disagreed.
One commenter accused the shop of unfairly judging millions of people based on the actions of a few.
“This kind of thinking is disappointing and immature,” the person wrote. “There are good and bad people in every profession and every walk of life.”
The commenter added that they had served alongside “some of the most selfless, compassionate individuals” in uniform and argued that applying broad stereotypes to military members and police officers was simply another form of bias.
As criticism continued to spread online, the shop maintained its position.
In a statement to Fox News Digital, a spokesperson said, “Yeah I’m booked up I can’t take any clients military or civilian. Thanks for your interest on my opinion.”
The controversy has continued to fuel debate online over businesses using social media to express political views and whether those opinions should influence who they choose to serve.