Ash Putnam, a 23-year-old with facial tattoos and piercings, took to TikTok to express her frustration after being rejected from a job at TJ Maxx. Her viral video sparked a heated debate about hiring practices and body art.
Putnam received an automated email rejecting her application, which she felt was impersonal. Seeking clarity, she visited the store and asked employees about the reason for her rejection.
The staff attributed it to lack of experience, but Putnam suspected her tattoos were the real issue. Although the employee denied it, Putnam remained skeptical.
@ashxobrien I want to know who is also having a hard time finding a job right now! #jobs #jobmarket ♬ original sound – Ash🖤
Her TikTok video garnered over 7 million views and thousands of comments. Many agreed that her tattoos likely played a role in the rejection, with some sharing similar experiences.
Putnam argued that tattoos don’t define one’s work ethic or potential. “Just because I have tattoos doesn’t mean I won’t be a good employee,” she said.
While TJ Maxx didn’t provide a clear answer, Putnam faced harsh criticism online, with some suggesting she should work at a circus or Halloween store.
Despite the backlash, Putnam advocates for greater acceptance of body art in the workplace. She believes businesses should reconsider their hiring practices, recognizing that tattoos don’t dictate a person’s capabilities.
As the conversation continues, one thing is clear: Ash Putnam’s courage has sparked a necessary discussion about diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
