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Deaf Community Finds Its Voice at Portland Cafe
6 Jan
Summary
- Woodstock Cafe operates primarily in American Sign Language.
- It serves as a vital employment and social hub for the Deaf community.
- A planned Deaf Equity Center faces funding challenges.
In Portland, the Woodstock Cafe has established itself as a unique establishment, primarily conducting its operations in American Sign Language (ASL). This innovative approach has drawn staff from across the United States, highlighting the employment barriers often faced by deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. Co-founder Andre Gray emphasized the cafe's role as a "stable place" and "rock" for its patrons.
The cafe, which is owned by the nonprofit CymaSpace, is more than just a place to eat. It actively hosts weekly ASL meetups and game nights, such as the popular 'Sign Squad' on Tuesdays. These events bring together a diverse range of individuals, from those born deaf to people gradually losing their hearing, creating an eclectic mix united by their use of sign language.
While plans for a Deaf Equity Center adjacent to the cafe were put on hold due to funding issues, CymaSpace remains hopeful in securing private donations and launching future crowdfunding efforts. This initiative aims to further empower the Deaf community, celebrating their pride and identity through accessible spaces and cultural events.
