In a world full of hate, caring is a rebellious act.

On the 13th page of Anarchy Dreamers, Issue 1, the O'Malley twins have their first back-and-forth.

Tadhg: "The POINT is that [fighting Nightmares is] illegal and the school will pull [your] scholarship if you get caught."
Tabbi: "That's not very punk rock of you."
Tadhg: "Caring is PUNK as FUCK, Tabitha!"
Tabbi: "So is breaking a STUIPD LAW, Tadhg!"

It sets up how the pair sees the world and deals with life's obstacles. Tabbi, the starry-eyed dreamer, goes into problems head first with her knives and cheerleader acrobatics. Tadhg, the grounded realist, watches and plans and offers support, whether that be carrying his friend's meds or covering for his sister's antics. There's strength in caring, especially in the world of Anarchy Dreamers, where people are punished for helping others.

The phrase "Caring is Punk" was always popular with Anarchy Dreamers fans, but it really took off after I posted an illustration called "Fight for your Dreams ||| Caring is Punk" on instagram. It was the first month of lockdown during the pandemic and the idea resonated with many people. For others, it made them irrationally angry. Either way, it sort of... blew up. And people wanted merchandise!

At the time, I only had heart-shaped Caring is Punk stickers and buttons. Over the next few months, I branched out into enamel pins, patches, and a new sticker set featuring the twins. Now we've even got shirts and hats.