A self‑described tattoo artist in Portland, Oregon, drew national attention after posting an Instagram advertisement for a “Kirkiversary Special” offering $50 neck tattoos on Sept. 10, the one‑year anniversary of the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Promotion details
The Instagram post, shared by the account “blacksctratcher,” featured an image of a tattoo design placed “in the exact placement of the kirkhole,” referencing the wound that killed Kirk in 2025. The caption read, “Alright yall here it is, One year After Kirk CELEBRATION. customs flash whatever. as long as its this placement!!!” The account’s bio listed “PORTLAND DM TO BOOK” and noted “BBP certified,” indicating the artist’s compliance with bloodborne pathogen safety standards.
Public reaction
The promotion quickly went viral after being amplified by the Libs of TikTok account, which accused the artist of using the anniversary to “celebrate his assassination.” The post amassed hundreds of thousands of views, and commenters expressed strong disapproval, with one writing, “You’re demonic. Yes, we all know about your mental illness.” The artist later posted a selfie with the caption, “I am NEET nothing u do can hurt me repubtards,” accompanied by a devil emoji, and added, “Stop imposing on my freedom of speech NOW.”
Responses from involved parties
Fox News Digital reached out to the artist for comment. The artist asked whether she would be “compensated” for the interview but did not answer a follow‑up question. Turning Point USA, the organization founded by Kirk, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Context and background
Charlie Kirk, 31, was shot in the neck and killed on Sept. 10, 2025, while speaking at Utah Valley University during his “American Comeback Tour.” His death has been a flashpoint for political discourse, and the anniversary has prompted various tributes and protests across the country. The Portland tattoo promotion adds a new, contentious dimension to the ongoing conversation about how public figures are memorialized and the limits of free expression.
Local perspective
Portland residents and local officials have not issued an official statement about the tattoo offer. However, the incident underscores the city’s broader cultural debates, where artistic expression, political symbolism, and community standards often intersect. While some view the promotion as a protected exercise of free speech, others see it as a disrespectful exploitation of a tragic event.
What’s next?
The Instagram account has since been set to private, limiting further public commentary. Whether the artist proceeds with the “Kirkiversary” tattoos remains unclear, as does any potential legal or regulatory response from local health authorities regarding the advertised services.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
