Did you know April is Deaf History Month? It’s a time to honor the achievements and contributions of the Deaf community. In the spirit of recognizing diversity and inclusion within the craft beer industry, we’re excited to shine a spotlight on Deaf-owned breweries in the U.S. These breweries not only produce exceptional craft beer but also serve as shining examples of entrepreneurship and representation within the brewing world.

Read on to learn about each Deaf-owned brewery!

Veditz and Company Brewing

Located in the heart of Sperryville, VA, Veditz and Company Brewing is named after George Veditz — “an activist and educator in the Deaf community, who ultimately changed the course of history for those who use American Sign Language.” The Veditz team states, “If we could choose anyone in history to join us for a beer today, it would be this visionary leader.”

They host regular “Sip & Sign” events — a great way to learn ASL while drinking craft beer! And every first Friday of the month, they host an ASL social.

From their innovative brews to their commitment to fostering a sense of community, Veditz and Company Brewing is a beacon of inclusivity in the craft beer scene.

Lochiel Brewing

Nestled in the picturesque town of Mesa, Arizona, Lochiel Brewing is not just a brewery but a labor of love for its founder, Ian Cameron. Ian is known for being the first deaf-owned brewer in the U.S. He has a fascinating history: he began brewing root beer at age ten, then graduated to all-grain brewing a few years later in his teens.

With a diverse selection of Scottish-inspired beers and a warm, inviting atmosphere, Lochiel Brewing invites beer enthusiasts of all backgrounds to come together and savor the moment.

Streetcar82 Brewing Co.

In the vibrant city of Hyattsville, Maryland, Streetcar82 Brewing Co. stands out as a beacon of innovation and inclusion. Streetcar82 Brewing Co. is more than just a brewery – it’s a celebration of Deaf culture and creativity. There is a large Deaf community in the area because of the brewery’s proximity to Gallaudet University (the global leader in education for deaf & hard of hearing students). What’s really cool, though, is that the brewery maintains an all-deaf staff and prioritizes deaf contractors whenever possible.

From their unique brews to their dedication to supporting the Deaf community, S82 is breaking down barriers and redefining what it means to be a successful brewery in today’s diverse landscape.

Let’s raise a glass to these incredible Deaf-owned breweries and the individuals behind them. Their passion, perseverance, and commitment to inclusivity serve as an inspiration to us all.

Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado or simply looking to support diverse businesses, consider visiting, sharing, or purchasing from these breweries.