Benjamin Michael, a 44-year-old former U.S. Marine Corps member, has been charged with hate crimes after being caught on camera ripping down a pride flag from the Dapper Dog Tattoo Shop located in Annapolis, Maryland. The incident took place early on November 15, around 1:00 AM, as surveillance footage revealed Michael walking by, stopping, and tearing down the pride flag displaying the message "ABIDE NO HATRED," which had been displayed prominently at the shop's entrance.
Co-owner Charles Garrett discovered the torn flag discarded in a nearby trash can when he arrived at the tattoo shop later the same morning. This wasn't the first time the shop had experienced such vandalism; it marked the third occasion the pride flag had been targeted, prompting Garrett to install security cameras outside the establishment. Following the incident, Garrett quickly contacted the local police and shared the video on social media, seeking assistance from the community to identify the perpetrator.
"It’s baffling and disheartening to see this kind of behavior still occurring," Garrett expressed, highlighting the pride flag's significance as not just fabric but as a symbol of support for the LGBTQ+ community. The online post went viral, leading to considerable community support.
Within hours of the footage being shared, assistance came when an employee from a nearby restaurant recognized Michael after having served him earlier the evening before. This employee noted his credit card receipt, which made it easier for law enforcement to track him down. Police soon identified Michael as the man from the footage.
Originally from Dallas, Texas, Michael is not only a Naval Academy graduate, but also served his country between 2004 and 2013. After being identified, he was issued summons for malicious destruction of property along with charges relating to hate crimes. Michael's attorney defended him, saying, "My client did not intend to destroy or deface the flag," asserting his lack of animosity toward any protected class.
The Dapper Dog Tattoo Shop took to social media to express gratitude for the swift community response. "We are always going to be a safe place for every human who walks through our doors, with no exceptions," they stated. The shop’s commitment to inclusivity and support for the LGBTQ+ community shines through, especially as they continue to grow as one of Annapolis’s friendliest tattoo parlors.
This incident, starkly reminiscent of earlier attacks on LGBTQ+ symbols across the United States, has sparked conversations about societal attitudes toward pride and acceptance. The pride flag has proudly flown as more than just colorful fabric; it resonates with values of love, acceptance, and representation. It stands as more than mere decoration—it embodies the struggles for equality faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.
The string of vandalism aimed at pride flags is indicative of a larger issue permeated within segments of society where acceptance is still contested. City residents and allies are increasingly banding together to combat such incidents of hatred and intolerance, emphasizing community strength and solidarity.
Garrett said, "The whole point is to spread positivity and show we’re a safe space for everyone." His words reflect the sentiments of many who cherish the freedoms of expressing love and identity through symbols like the pride flag. The community has expressed outrage over the incident, seeing it not just as an attack on physical property, but on ideals of inclusion and respect.
During times laden with division and discrimination, instances like these act as wake-up calls, pushing supporters of LGBTQ+ rights to not only raise flags but to raise their voices for peace, acceptance, and love. The response to such acts of aggression, led by engaged citizens rallying around their local businesses, frameworks of respect and acceptance, leaves hope for broadening conversations about inclusivity and the protection of identity within society.
The aftermath of Michael's actions showcases the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community and its advocates, who are increasingly determined to stand strong against hatred. The swift action taken by the Dapper Dog Tattoo Shop and the surrounding community serves as a proud example of collective strength against intolerance. Communities everywhere must recognize the importance of fostering environments where everyone can feel safe and respected.
