Starbucks Will Open Its First Sign Language Store in the U.S.
Starbucks has announced their plan to open another store that will be inclusive to the deaf community.
The new accessible branch will hire at least 20 deaf, hard-of-hearing employees, and allies fluent in American Sign Language, as well as showing off new aprons that include the signing of Starbucks.
The Signing store is opening in Washington, D.C. and the location isn’t just a random spot on the map. They are opening the store close to Gallaudet University, the world’s only liberal arts university for the deaf.
Coming this fall in Washington, D.C.: our first U.S. Signing Store, creating jobs and driving greater connection with the Deaf and hard of hearing community: https://t.co/aOWJKErx35 pic.twitter.com/39N0HuIGVL
— Starbucks Coffee (@Starbucks) July 19, 2018
It is not just the baristas that will be a part of the deaf community, but also the art. The Washington store plans to have art created by deaf and hard-of-hearing on display, as well as creating events inclusive to the deaf community.
Taking things a step further, the store will have a “Deaf Space,” which includes surfaces with minimal glare, floors that prevent a lot of vibration, and bright lighting.
The Signing store is planning to open sometime in October.
