Welcome to CymaSpace’s new Sign Language Cafe – Where Communication Knows No Bounds!
CymaSpace is on a mission to create a unique space in the heart of Portland, Oregon, that goes beyond serving delicious coffee and scrumptious treats. Our dream is to establish the city’s first Sign Language Cafe, a haven for fostering connections between the deaf and hearing communities.
Why a Sign Language Cafe?
Imagine a place where conversations transcend language barriers, where the rich tapestry of sign language weaves together diverse stories and experiences. The Sign Language Cafe aims to be that place – a welcoming hub where deaf and hearing individuals can come together, share stories, and build friendships.
Our Vision:
Community Connection: The cafe will be a vibrant meeting point for deaf and hearing patrons alike, fostering a sense of unity and understanding within the community.
Safe Space: We envision a safe haven where deaf individuals feel empowered, valued, and respected, free from communication barriers that can be prevalent in traditional public spaces.
Cultural Celebration: Beyond coffee and pastries, the Sign Language Cafe will celebrate deaf culture, hosting events, workshops, and performances that showcase the beauty and diversity of sign language.
Why Your Support Matters:
To turn this vision into reality, we need your help. We’re seeking to raise $20,000 to cover startup costs, including sign language training for staff, accessibility features, and creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere. Your contribution will not only help us open the doors to the Sign Language Cafe but will also play a vital role in creating a more connected and understanding community.
How You Can Make a Difference:
✨ Donate! Every dollar brings us one step closer to our goal. Your generosity will directly contribute to making the Sign Language Cafe a reality.
✨ Help Spread the word! Share our campaign with your friends, family, and networks. The more people who know about our vision, the greater impact we can make.
✨ Follow Us! Stay updated on our progress by following us on Facebook and Instagram . Your support and encouragement mean the world to us.
How Your Donation Makes a Difference:
Accessibility Features: Your donation will help us install cutting-edge technology for better visual communication and accessibility.
Training Programs: Your donation will provide workshops for the hearing community to learn Sign Language, fostering an inclusive environment.
Café Setup: Your donation will help us design a warm and inviting space where everyone feels welcome.
Community Events: Your donation will help us host regular events that celebrate Deaf culture, promoting understanding and unity.
Perks of Being a Supporter:
Everyone who donates will be entered to win an incredible getaway package to Portland, which will include:
☺ A two-night stay at the Jupiter Next☺ $75 for lunch at the delectable Kachka Lavka☺ Four tickets to experience Hopscotch☺ $50 for dinner at Portland’s famous Nong’s Khao Man Gai
Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a lasting impact on our community.
Join Us in Building Bridges, Not Barriers
Join us in making the Sign Language Cafe a reality. Your support is not just an investment in a nonprofit business; it’s an investment in creating a more inclusive and connected community.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. Together, we can build a space where communication knows no boundaries!
With gratitude,
-The CymaSpace Team
Kimberly Jack and Michelle Crane are two Deaf Portlanders who share a love of the diverse music and concert scene in Portland, Oregon. They planned to see a concert in October 2016 with their friend Helen Ebey, so Michelle asked the manager at Doug Fir Lounge to provide a sign language interpreter. To their dismay, Doug Fir Lounge told Michelle’s group that they couldn’t afford interpreters and that having them would be “distracting” for concert-goers. Many venues and bands are not aware of the need to provide equal access to music. They don’t know about resources to interpreting services, or stipulations related to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) that may apply to them. The promoter for the band “Stone In Love” also declined the request for an interpreter.
