Starbucks as a Canvas
It is sometimes through simple daily life interactions that inspiration strikes and fuels a passion to discover new pathways and opportunities for creating a ripple of change in our community. Such was the case when an ordinary conversation with a food service crew wanting to learn sign language in Manila became the catalyst for Ethan Jared Chan, Founder and Program Director of FSL for Inclusive PH to embark on a journey of discovery on how to further promote inclusivity in the Philippines.
In July 2023, while on a visit to Gallaudet University, one of the oldest university for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing, FSL for Inclusive PH had a chance to to experience the power of sign language bringing the community together in a Starbucks signing store. For those who are unfamiliar with this term, signing stores are retail establishments staffed by Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing employees (DHOH), providing them employment and development opportunities.
Located along the intersection of the 6th and H St. in Washington, D.C., this store may look like any other Starbucks coffee shop that we typically see in our neighborhood but upon closer inspection, details that make this unique store as a inspiring canvas for FSL for Inclusive PH‘s community advocacy initiatives.
Inclusive Visual Displays
Customers from all walks of life, orientation and culture are warmly greeted right off by the store facade proudly displaying Starbucks’ name finger-spelled in American Sign Language (ASL). As soon as one passes through the door, visual art decors and displays speaking about Deaf culture provide a welcome feast to the eyes.
Interactive Learning Stations
Interactive learning stations throughout the café provide Starbucks customers with an opportunity to learn basic phrases and engage in sign language conversations. With the help of visual signages, visitors could learn to greet, order coffee, or even engage in simple conversations—all in sign language.
Unique Ordering Experience
The café’s menu boards were transformed with colorful visual display that promotes awareness and appreciation of disability pride. Customers have a chance to order their favorite items in ASL, opt to use boogie board for writing one’s order, or use rudimentary signing for communicating with DHOH store crew using one’s sign language, creating a unique and inclusive atmosphere.
Diversity, Equality & Inclusivity (DEI) At Work
Whether one is hearing or not, ordering your favorite coffee from welcoming ASL-trained Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing baristas wearing their trademark green apron embroidered with fingerspelled store name, was not intimidating at all.
Starbucks’ Commitment to Inclusivity
With 17 signing stores across the globe, Starbucks clearly demonstrates its position as a socially responsible corporate entity, emphasizing the importance of giving back and making a positive impact beyond its business operations to the Deaf community that it serves. Through its inclusive practices and community engagement initiatives, this global coffee chain continues to set an example for businesses worldwide, demonstrating that corporate success can be intertwined with social responsibility and a genuine commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all.
FSL for Inclusive PH’s Ongoing Mission
Using the Starbucks signing store experience as a canvas for awareness and change, FSL for Inclusive PH‘s advocacy efforts aim to reach far and wide in creating spaces and initiatives that bridge gaps, break down stereotypes, and cultivate a sense of belonging for all individuals, regardless of their communication abilities. Individual learners, schools, community centers, businesses, Deaf and Hearing advocates must work together in creating a more inclusive society where communication barriers are broken, and diversity is celebrated.
Conclusion
In the heart of Washington, the Starbucks signing store serves as a beacon of inclusivity and a role model for businesses and communities worldwide, showcasing the profound impact that a commitment to diversity and accessibility can have. Using this as an example of how to cater to the needs of the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing community, FSL for Inclusive PH hopes to inspire others to follow suit and integrate inclusivity in their own operations. As we continue to raise awareness about the unique cultural and linguistic diversity of the Filipino Sign Language, let’s support FSL for Inclusive PH‘s mission to bridge gaps, break down barriers, and make the world a more inclusive place, one sign at a time.