Photo by Matt Sayles
Future 40 2022 Peter Cook
Wine Hospitality Access Advocate and Wine Educator, Uncorked Access, Chicago, ILÂ
Advocating for the Deaf Wine Community
Peter Cook is an internationally reputed deaf poet and storyteller who’s been traveling around the world for nearly 40 years. Having accomplished his WSET Level 3, Cook is also a wine educator, teaching workshops about wine and American Sign Language. Through his courses as well as his social media accounts, Cook provides visual information related to viticulture and vinification.
His goal: greater, more equitable language access throughout the wine and hospitality industries for both employees and consumers. “For greater accessibility, I discourage the idea that we only need to accommodate people with disabilities,” says Cook. “Rather, we need to create a space where it can be accessible for all, so we can share…equal seats at our table.”
Cook is also the chair of ASL Department at Columbia College Chicago, where students train to become professional sign language interpreters and community advocates.
Instagram: @deafpetercook, @uncorked_access
