Christopher Desloges has become a familiar face in unprecedented times. The George Brown College alumnus gained “rock star” status as the American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter at Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s daily media briefings on the COVID-19 pandemic.
The general public and the media were entranced by the expressive way Desloges communicated the premier’s words and emotions. The March 26 media conference where Ford lashed out at businesses accused of price gouging was a prime example (see clip below).
Desloges, a 2007 graduate of George Brown’s American Sign Language—English program, has also signed for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and is the president of Toronto Sign Language Interpreter Service.
His last day as an interpreter for Ford was April 1, and the premier took a few moments to recognize the ASL interpreter’s hard work.
"My friend, you're a champion, you're a rock star, helping people in the deaf community, and it's so important the role you're playing," Ford said.
Desloges says his work with the province will continue behind the scenes.
The George Brown grad has received a flurry of media attention from local and national news outlets. Here’s a look at some of the coverage he’s received:
- Toronto Life, A Q&A with Christopher Desloges, who became an overnight celebrity as Doug Ford’s sign-language interpreter
- Globe and Mail, Sign-language interpreter takes on Premier Ford’s ‘angry dad’ approach as he pushes for accessibility
- Global News, Sign language interpreter providing important service during Ontario news conferences
- CBC, 'You're a rock star': Premier heaps praise upon 'champion' ASL interpreter
