What Prison Tattoos Mean

Prison tattoos are a more permanent form of self-expression among prisoners, and typically act as a mark of fellowship and loyalty amongst inmates, as well as a sign of status and rank within the prison environment. They are often used to represent membership and affiliation between inmates, friendships, alliances, and racial, religious, and gang affiliations. Common tattoos in prisons include tributes to a family member who has passed away, an expression of guilt for a crime committed, or a reminder of freedom. For example, symbols such as ‘Liberty’ and images of a door may represent a desire to be free from incarceration or overreaching social or governmental control. In some cases, prisoners may also get tattoos to reflect their beliefs, such as religious or philosophical symbols. Furthermore, prison tattoos can also be used to indicate a person’s violation of prison rules, or their standing within their respective gang or other criminal enterprise.