Doug Ford Praises ‘Champion’ ASL Interpreter On His Last Day
If news about the pandemic has you feeling down, here’s something to perk up your spirits.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford took a moment after answering questions from the media Wednesday to praise American Sign Language interpreter Christopher Desloges.
The premier has been holding near-daily press conferences alongside ministers at Queen’s Park, with Desloges standing behind him interpreting, often animated and expressive while signing.
“This gentleman shows up, never complains, never says a word. I told him today, how many comments and emails and phone calls I get about [him],” Ford said.
“My friend, you’re a champion and you’re a rockstar, helping people in the deaf community, and it’s so important, the role you’re playing,” he told Desloges.
WATCH: Doug Ford says Ontario is preparing an anti-price gouging order. Story continues below.
The moment caught the attention of viewers on social media, who praised both Desloges’ work, and Ford’s shoutout to him.
Kinda impressed that Doug Ford @fordnation gave a shout out to the ASL translator. We need positive engagements too. Everyone is scared but it’s kindness, respect and positive engagements that will remind us what we are protecting and fighting for when we stay home.
— Liset (@Krzwyf) April 1, 2020
I have grown to greatly appreciate the expressiveness of Doug Ford’s ASL interpreter.
— Bob LeDrew (@bobledrew) March 28, 2020
I'm totally obsessed with the ASL Translator standing by Doug Ford.
— Kat (@TorontoBlonde) April 1, 2020
Desloges’ background includes working as an interpreter at George Brown College, according to the Toronto Sign Language Interpreter Service website.
Wednesday marked his last day of being on camera for the briefings, Desloges said after Ford spoke.
“I will still be part of the team and supporting the interpreters that are here, but what we’re trying to do is we’re trying to ensure all deaf Ontarians have access, and we’re moving to include deaf...
