P.E.I. tattoo artists raise $5,500 for trans community

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CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. — A gaggle of tattoo artists has raised $5,500 for the P.E.I. Transgender Community by means of an inclusive occasion held on July 23.

Individuals attended the occasion to get a tattoo in help of the group, with every tattoo priced at $60 to help trans individuals in P.E.I.

The fundraiser was organized by Kyle Bannerman, a tattoo artist, along with Hannah Bulman and Hilary Wooden, who independently function tattoo retailers in Charlottetown.

The occasion was initially projected to have about 50 individuals attend, however that tripled, stated Kyle Bannerman, the organizer.

“It went significantly better than we may ever have ever deliberate. We had about 150-plus individuals in line. We have been capable of do 60 tattoos in a day. We labored for 9 hours, and it was unbelievable.”

Individuals wouldn’t cease coming, he stated.

“We began tattooing at, I believe the primary one was about 9:45 a.m. And the primary individuals in line had gotten there at 7:30 a.m. We may by no means have guessed or ever may have imagined issues like how early and the way devoted the group was. It was unbelievable to talk to everybody who got here.”

Greater than 70 individuals have been unable to get tattooed as a result of mass turnout, however that didn’t cease them from making donations.

“Some had donated, , simply to present to the trigger versus simply getting a tattoo for it. You already know, it was an unbelievable scene that day.

Bannerman stated with the help they’ve acquired this yr, the occasion is more likely to be held once more in 2024.

“(When) we deliberate this, like three or 4 months in the past, we did not actually know the way many individuals have been going to indicate up. Effectively, after the response of the occasion, we might like to plan for subsequent yr, and hopefully, , have extra artists and be capable to accommodate far more individuals. I’m wanting ahead to doing this, so long as persons are .”

Vivian Ulinwa is a reporter with SaltWire in Prince Edward Island. She may be reached by e mail at [email protected].