"Starbucks Sued for Discrimination by Deaf Former Employee", 21 Oct 2015

…[Starbucks] is now being sued by a former barista who says the company discriminated against her for being deaf…The…woman, who worked for Starbucks from 2007 to 2014, says over the years she repeatedly asked "for reasonable accommodations, such as sign language interpreters for staff meetings, training, and other important work events, and was denied in most instances."…The woman filed a discrimination complaint with the EEOC and claims she was then fired in retaliation. According to the lawsuit, Starbucks told her she was being fired for having visible tattoos. (The company's tattoo ban was lifted soon after.)…[A] rep for Starbucks issued the following statement: "We deeply care about our partners (employees) and offer an inclusive and accessible work environment where everyone is welcome, respected and valued. This partner was no exception." The spokesperson also provided a link to the company's statement on access and inclusion for people with disabilities, which specifically states that it provides "sign language interpreting services."…