DeKALB | To many, tattoos — once taboo — are now a societal norm among students and adults alike.

Although tattoos are now more socially acceptable, they still remain a stigma in the workplace.

When getting tattoos, many students may not realize that the bodily placement of their tattoo could ultimately have a negative effect on their ability to get a job upon graduation.

“When I was in the workplace, people did have [tattoos] but generally attempted to cover them up since it was not acceptable because everyone dressed so conservatively,” said Emily Salvani, student relations consultant for NIU’s Career Services. “But it is a matter of taste and corporate culture.”

Freshman undecided major Joshua Yates understands why companies may not allow visible tattoos but still does not fully agree.

“If your are in a high-powered job it’s not acceptable,” Yates said. “It shouldn’t matter but it does. [Tattoos] don’t say anything bad; it’s a form of art or expression and just represents them.”

Despite the importance of professionalism in the work place, Allstate Insurance Company differs from the Disney Company in the matter of tattoos and physical appearance.

“Allstate does not have a specific policy regarding tattoos,” said Allstate spokesman Eric Scott. “Allstate hires people who are the best candidates and that is first and foremost.”

The Walt Disney company has specific policies regarding employees’ physical appearance. All cast members (Disney World employees) must comply with “The Disney Look,” which includes no visible tattoos.

According to the Walt Disney College Program, “Intentional body alteration or modification for the purpose of achieving a visible, physical effect that disfigures, deforms or similarly detracts from a professional image is prohibited.”

Regardless of company policies, the question of whether or not they have the right to deny a position to a person with a visible tattoo still remains.

Don Henderson, director of NIU’s Student Legal Assistance, cites the Civil Rights Act. “In employment matters, people are protected from matters of discrimination in regards to race, ethnicity, religion, etc.”

Unfortunately for some, however, the Civil Rights Act does not currently protect anyone in employment matters from discrimination against tattoos or physical appearance in general.

“Recently there has been an increasing move to make discrimination against physical appearance illegal,” said Henderson.

Although some municipalities have not officially passed any laws that protect people from physical appearance discrimination (including tattoos), many students will continue to take part in the act of body art.

In light of this reality, Salvani offers students a few words of advice.

“Find a discreet place for [the tattoo] to avoid complications. Dress conservatively and follow normal business etiquette.”