A Sign of Friendship at the Disneyland Resort
Originally published at Disney Parks News
Meet cast members David Smith, a merchandise host at World of Disney and Jr. Martinez, a Guest Relations Host. While they work in different departments, they have one very important thing in common: they both can communicate through American Sign Language.
David and Jr. first met in 2020 when David noticed Jr. signing along to the music playing in Downtown Disney. David, who is deaf, was impressed with Jr.’s signing and ability and the two have been connecting and learning from one another ever since. “I always will make a friend with any cast member who is motivated to learn sign language with me,” David shared.
Jr. learned American Sign Language in high school and has been able to use his skills to interact with guests who use ASL and of course, to catch up with his friend David. “[Knowing American Sign Language] gives me the opportunity to connect with people within the community I may not have otherwise,” Jr. said. “It’s never too late to learn how to sign!”
See these two in action as we celebrate International Day of Sign Languages and meet more of our cast members on TikTok @DisneyParks!
@disneyparks Happy International Day of Sign Languages! #Disney #DisneyParks #Disneyland #DisneyCastLife #DeafAwareness #SignLanguage
