Former Gaza hostage, October 7 survivors receive therapeutic Healing Ink tattoos

Healing Ink, a decade-old initiative by the nonprofit Art Over Hate, offered therapeutic tattoos to former Gaza hostages and survivors of the October 7 Hamas massacre. The program aims to empower individuals by allowing them to reclaim their bodies and lives through the art of tattooing.

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a reclamation of their body, of their mind, and of their life story.

CEO Craig Dershowitz described the process as "a reclamation of their body, of their mind, and of their life story." Tattoo artists like Ben Gida, owner of Gida Tattoo Studio, view the tattoos as a way to "take something painful and transform it," turning scars into art that signifies meaning, identity, and personal power.

Some participants received tattoos to cover physical scars from the attacks, while others sought to address psychological trauma. Itamar Gilead, who subdued a Hamas terrorist during the attack, expressed hope that the tattoo therapy would help him feel less like he is constantly fighting for survival. Police officer Alon Kuli, who was among the first responders and dealt with injured victims and identified bodies, also received a tattoo, suffering from secondary PTSD.

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a way to take something painful and transform it.

Notably, former hostage Guy Gilboa-Dalal's journey with Healing Ink began before his release. His brother, Gal, received a tattoo inspired by a song that gave Guy hope during his 737 days in captivity. Upon Guy's return, seeing the tattoo moved him to tears and inspired him to get his own Healing Ink piece.

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You can turn a scar you did not choose into art that carries meaning, identity, and personal power.