Starbucks To Open First US Sign Language Store In DC

WASHINGTON, DC — Starbucks will open its first "signing store" in D.C. in early October, where the main way of communicating is through sign language, according to a statement from the company released Thursday.

A team of deaf Starbucks employees led the effort to launch the cafe, which will open at 6th & H Street near Gallaudet University.

Starbucks will hire about 20 to 25 deaf, hard of hearing and hearing partners from across the country to work at the store. All employees will be fluent in American Sign Language.

“This is a historic moment in Starbucks ongoing journey to connect with the deaf and hard of hearing community, hire and engage deaf and hard of hearing partners, and continue to find ways to be more inclusive, accessible and welcoming to all,” Rossann Williams, Starbucks executive vice president of U.S. Retail, said in a statement.

Deaf baristas will have ASL aprons embroidered by a deaf supplier, and hearing partners who sign will have an “I Sign” pin, the company says.

The cafe will also provide an open environment for communication and low glare reflective surfaces.

Starbucks opened their first Signing Store in Malaysia in 2016.

(Photo via Starbucks)