Ok people, I have a quick thought. I am fortunate enough to work for a clinic that is very open and accepting of all types of people. I myself have my nose pierced as does 2 other nurses here and there are a few with visible tattoos. When I asked my supervisor if I had to take out my nose stud when I started she said, "No, we do not discriminate against our workers who have tattoos and piercings." It's very nice to not have to change who I am just because it's "taboo".
I wonder why so many workplaces require piercings to be removed and tattoos to be covered, even if they are modest. Do you think there will ever be a time when all places will accept these things?