Join coffee leaders from the Pacific Northwest at Changing Structures, an event and discussion about redefining coffee conventions.
BY ASHLEY RODRIGUEZ
BARISTA MAGAZINE ONLINE
Event flyer by Chris Hulsizer
On Thursday, February 21, Broadcast Coffee in Seattle will host Changing Structures. The free event, which is hosted by #coffeetoo and Umeko Motoyoshi, brings together coffee pros who are attempting to change the coffee industry and upend existing structures.
“Changing Structures is a FREE event (with suggested donation of $5 to support #coffeetoo) presenting a conversation about coffee and change,” a press release states. “The panel features coffee professionals who are creating new alternatives to outdated structures, through community-focused work.”
Changing Structures will ask panelists to talk about ways in which existing structures throughout the coffee supply chain can use a shake-up. “Topics will range from creating non-traditional cafe spaces, to building a value chain around the true cost of coffee production. The goal of our event is to empower attendees, and encourage the coffee community to build together toward a new future,” the press release reads.
The event itself is modeling ways in which structures in the coffee community could use some help—by outlining what provisions will be provided, along with accessibility information and a clear code of conduct. “Changing Structures will provide free food and beverages, including vegan, gluten-free, and non-alcoholic options. … Broadcast Coffee is wheelchair-accessible and has a single-occupant all-gender restroom. This event has a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, violence, and bigotry. Offenders will be shown the door immediately,” states the press release.
Panelists include:
Umeko Motoyoshi of umeshiso.com and Sudden Coffee in San Francisco
Ian Williams of Deadstock Coffee in Portland, Ore.
Radhika Kapur of Third Culture Coffee in Seattle
Laura Perry of LÜNA Coffee in Vancouver, BC
Along with challenging current trends and beliefs in the coffee industry, Changing Structures hopes to inspire and spark new ideas amongst attendees. “Changing Structures is about support and empowerment, and the intentional safety of our space will reflect this mission,” says the press release. The event will take place at Broadcast Coffee from 7-10 p.m., and attendees who are able are encouraged to donate $5 to support #coffeetoo.
