My son in law is one of the most talented, respected tattoo artists in the Netherlands. A week ago his studio closed. Through him I encounter the moral economy of #Covid19 policy. As many governments do, the Dutch government offers support to small and medium-sized businesses.1/3

However,nail salons,a comparable industry, are eligible for support. His tattoo studio is a fixture of the town and has always generously supported community causes. Also,sex workers, although a legal, tax-paying profession in the Netherlands, are excluded from income support 2/3

The message is clear: ‘sin’, ‘immorality’ and expressive nonconformism should not receive support. Despite half a century of secularization, Calvinism is still deeply ensconced in the minds of Dutch officials. 3/3