Starbucks Opens Its First
U.S. Sign Language Store Washington D.C. is home to the first Starbucks location where every employee is fluent in American Sign Language (ASL). The store, which opened
on Oct. 23, is located near
Gallaudet University, the world's
only liberal arts university for the deaf. ASL fingerspelling can be found inside and outside the store, and at the register, Starbucks has provided tablets for customers to better communicate. Kylie Garcia, deaf barista, to 'CNN Travel' The new concept is also providing employment opportunities to
the deaf community. Hearing members of the community
are also excited by the new store. Kirsten Schofield, local resident,
to 'CNN Travel' Matthew Gilsbach, the store's manager, regards the opportunity as a "third space" for people to gather and socialize. Matthew Gilsbach, store manager,
to 'CNN Travel'